The J. Burden Show A CROWBAR at the Gate to Hell w/ Andrew Edwards: The J. Burden Show Ep. 383
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Dec 5, 2025 Andrew Edwards, an author and commentator, dives into his novel, Crowbar, which blends mercenary intrigue with supernatural themes. He discusses the influence of Cormac McCarthy on his writing style and how literary greats engage in a dialogue across time. The conversation explores intriguing characters, including the deeply flawed Cohen, and their complexities. Edwards touches on conspiracy culture, drawing parallels with MKUltra, while also reflecting on the spiritual collective experiences at Grateful Dead concerts. The episode is a captivating mix of fiction and philosophy.
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Confronting Literary Giants
- Andrew Edwards cites Cormac McCarthy as a formative influence and says confronting his style is necessary for serious novelists.
- He ultimately learned the influence then let it go to avoid merely aping McCarthy and find his own voice.
Conspiracy As Folklore
- The novel blends Cold War-era covert programs with supernatural elements to blur political and mystical breaches.
- Edwards frames conspiracy as folkloric mystery where we might not even know what we don't know.
Villainy Born From Behavior
- Cohen emerged organically while writing as an extreme, repulsive spook character whose inner choices drive his threat.
- Edwards finds such despicable characters fascinating and important for the book's moral complexity.
