Otherppl with Brad Listi

947. Jeff VanderMeer

Dec 10, 2024

Jeff VanderMeer, acclaimed author of 'Annihilation' and the Southern Reach Trilogy, discusses his latest novel 'Absolution' and the creative inspirations derived from his upbringing in Fiji. He shares his experiences in adapting 'Annihilation' into film, highlighting the challenges of contract negotiations and the unexpected success of his work. VanderMeer reflects on his family’s influence in science and the importance of diverse literary inspirations. He also recounts a captivating encounter with a Florida panther, illustrating the complex interactions between nature and creativity.

01:13:53

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Jeff VanderMeer

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Quick takeaways

Jeff VanderMeer's upbringing in Fiji, devoid of U.S. cultural influence, profoundly shaped his identity and appreciation for nature, which permeates his writing.

VanderMeer experienced a sudden moment of clarity that allowed him to rapidly construct his latest novel 'Absolution,' merging long-held ideas with new inspirations.

His reflections on the adaptation of 'Annihilation' reveal his desire for greater creative control in film projects, balancing artistic integrity with commercial demands.

Deep dives

Jeff VanderMeer's Creative Journey

Jeff VanderMeer reflects on his early life and formative experiences that shaped his identity as a writer. He grew up in Fiji without the influence of U.S. culture, attending local schools where he was immersed in the biodiversity of the islands. His parents, who were involved in scientific pursuits, nurtured his interest in nature, while his own health challenges and family dynamics spurred him to write from a young age. VanderMeer's unique upbringing instilled a deep appreciation for the natural world, which later influenced the vivid settings and themes in his works.

Intro

2min

Formative Journeys and Speculative Narratives

5min

Influences and Inspirations

10min

Revolutionizing Reading with Sol Reader

3min

Wild Encounters and Creative Journeys

18min

Fragments of Creativity

6min

Unveiling the Creative Process

12min

Navigating Literary Adaptations

13min

Promotional Highlights and Author Insights

4min

Jeff VanderMeer is the author of the novel Absolution, available from MCD Books. It was the official November pick of the Otherppl Book Club.

VanderMeer's New York Times-bestselling Southern Reach Trilogy has been translated into more than thirty-seven languages. The first novel, Annihilation, won the Nebula Award and the Shirley Jackson Award. His other books include Hummingbird Salamander, Dead Astronauts, Borne (in development as a TV series at AMC), and The Strange Bird. VanderMeer has lectured at MIT, Yale, Vanderbilt, and Columbia. Most recently, he gave the John Hersey Memorial Address at the Key West Literary Seminar. His Florida reporting has appeared in Current Affairs, Time, the Nation, and Esquire.

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