Irvine Welsh, the provocative mind behind the iconic novel Trainspotting, shares his insights on reading habits reshaped by the pandemic. He discusses the joy of chunky reads and the significance of Evelyn Waugh, even revealing a humorous anecdote about inadvertently impacting Waugh's son. Welsh also delves into the complexities of authenticity in writing, the thrill of collaboration on his latest work The Seal Club, and the joy of gifting books during the Icelandic tradition of Jóllobokkoflód. His reflections on Hollywood provide a candid and humorous take on success.
Irvine Welsh discusses how COVID-19 has transformed reading habits, with many seeking immersive novels for escapism amidst distractions.
The podcast highlights the importance of diverse influences in writing, encouraging authors to explore non-linear narratives beyond traditional storytelling formats.
As the literary landscape shifts, authors face pressure to market their work, complicating the balance between commercial success and genuine artistic expression.
Deep dives
The Impact of COVID-19 on Reading Habits
COVID-19 has significantly altered many individuals' reading habits, with some reporting they read more but struggle with concentration. The distractions present in the current environment make it challenging to focus on literature, prompting some readers to seek the comfort of novels. A return to classic novels or immersive long reads has become appealing, allowing readers to escape from the overwhelming nature of current events. In this context, the need to balance staying informed with the desire for escapism has become increasingly important for many.
The Influence of Literature on Writing
The conversation emphasizes the importance of diverse influences in writing, highlighting how interaction with various authors and styles can shape a writer's own approach. Writers are encouraged to experiment with different genres and narrative structures, moving away from the notion that traditional storytelling is the only valid format. The discussion reflects on classic works, like Ulysses, which have prompted writers to embrace non-linear narratives and thematic exploration. This flexibility allows writers to push boundaries and redefine what constitutes a good story.
Emerging Scottish Writers
There is a recognition of emerging Scottish writers who are making significant contributions to literature. The challenge remains in the publishing industry, which often prioritizes profitability over nurturing new talent, leading to promising voices potentially being overlooked. Writers like Jenny Fagan are highlighted for their ability to bring ambition back into British novels, demonstrating that compelling narratives can still flourish despite market constraints. This shift encourages readers to support and seek out newer authors who may redefine the literary landscape.
The Changing Role of Authors
As the literary landscape evolves, the role of authors has shifted significantly, with increased pressure for writers to become public figures and marketeers of their own work. This shift impacts the creative process, as the promotional demands often take precedence over the writing itself. As a result, some authors express a desire for a return to a time when they could focus solely on writing without the burdens of public expectation and promotional activities. This dilemma raises questions about the balance between commercial success and genuine artistic expression.
Literature as a Reflection of Society
Literature serves as a powerful mirror to societal issues, with particular emphasis on how contemporary narratives address relevant social concerns like climate change and class dynamics. Books like Jenny Fagan’s The Sunlight Pilgrims provide thought-provoking insights into the human experience in the face of global challenges. By exploring complex themes through storytelling, literature offers readers a nuanced understanding of the world while capturing the intricacies of human emotions and relationships. This capability of literature to inspire social change and reflection remains crucial in today’s society.
This week we're delighted to delve into the reading habits of a genuine living legend: Irvine Welsh! Irvine is an acclaimed and frequently controversial novelist, playwright, director screenwriter and short story writer. His first novel was the massively popular Trainspotting (turned into an equally popular film) and he has produced 10 more novels with the latest being The Seal Club, a collaboration with Alan Warner and John King. We talked to him about rereading, music books, the joys of a chunky read, the importance of Evelyn Waugh and how he may have inadvertently killed Waugh's son, Auberon. To learn more or donate to the charity FareShare visit FareShare.org.uk
