Sacred and Profane Love Episode 69: Cormac McCarthy's "Blood Meridian" w/ Aaron Gwyn
May 24, 2024
Literature expert Aaron Gwyn discusses Cormac McCarthy's 'Blood Meridian', exploring its influence on his writing style and the evolution in McCarthy's tone. They analyze the characters of the kid and Judge Holden, delving into their complexity and symbolic significance. The conversation highlights the enigmatic nature of the characters, challenging readers with discomfort and deep reflection on the impact of masterpiece literature.
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Aaron Gwyn's Blood Meridian Awakening
- Aaron Gwyn's love for Blood Meridian began after a slow start but a powerful last third.
- He reread it immediately and found it greatly influenced his writing style.
Blood Meridian's Style Roots
- Blood Meridian's style is influenced by the King James Bible and Moby Dick.
- McCarthy adopts conjunction repetition and nautical language despite desert settings.
Twisted Catholic Imagery
- Blood Meridian features twisted Catholic imagery reflecting McCarthy's Catholic upbringing.
- Rituals and statues are perverted, enhancing the novel's dark religious themes.