Fast Politics with Molly Jong-Fast Ken Follett & Lili Anolik
Dec 25, 2024
Ken Follett, a bestselling author known for his historical epics, shares insights into the restoration of Notre Dame and its cultural significance. Lili Anolik, a contributing editor at Vanity Fair, discusses her book exploring the fascinating lives of Joan Didion and Eve Babitz, highlighting their complex relationship in the creative scene of 1960s Los Angeles. The conversation weaves together narratives of literature, personal experiences, and the political landscape, showcasing how storytelling shapes society and reflects contemporary challenges.
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Follett's Cathedral Connection
- Ken Follett, an atheist, wrote The Pillars of the Earth about cathedral building.
- The book defied initial concerns, selling 29 million copies and establishing Follett as a cathedral expert.
Initial Doubts and Eventual Success
- Some publishers initially doubted The Pillars of the Earth's appeal due to its subject matter.
- Word-of-mouth propelled its success, leading to high sales and recognition, especially in Germany.
Notre Dame Fire and Media Attention
- Follett learned about the Notre Dame fire from a friend, now the UK Home Secretary.
- His knowledge of cathedral fires, gained through research, led to media appearances explaining the event.
