Ron Rash

Ron Rash, an award-winning novelist and professor known for his exploration of Appalachian life, shares his insights on the literary influence of Cormac McCarthy. He discusses his upbringing in Western North Carolina and the early works that shaped him as a writer. Rash reflects on his admiration for McCarthy, particularly the poetic qualities in 'Suttree,' and the emotional complexity of McCarthy's characters. He also defends the importance of the short story form and emphasizes the need for students to engage deeply with literature.