In a recent interview, Percival Everett reflected on the long journey of writing his novel, The Trees, stating that it took him 63 years to reach this point. He described the initial idea for the book as a slow burn that stemmed from his experiences as an American. While he noted that inspiration for novels often comes suddenly, he emphasizes that his writing is deeply influenced by a lifetime of observation.
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When asked about the presence of Emmett Till in recent American history, Everett expressed uncertainty about the term 'ghost' but acknowledged Till as a significant symbol. He shared, "I prefer to think of him as a boy who never got to grow up," indicating his view of the broader historical context that encompasses numerous haunting figures in America.
Everett's work has been characterized as a blend of zombie horror, detective narrative, and slapstick revenge fantasy, with comparisons to figures like Jonathan Swift and South Park. He noted that such interpretations are best left to others, as he does not feel the need to categorize his work himself.
Regarding any homage to Chester Himes in his characters, Everett remarked that while the detectives in The Trees may be influenced by Himes, the term 'homage' can be thrown around too easily.
Everett also discussed the subversive nature of reading, pointing out that oppressive regimes often resort to book burning as a means of control. He highlighted the privacy of reading as a powerful tool for independent thought, stating that literature allows individuals to interpret art in personal ways. He criticized educational disparities, remarking that a populace that is well-read poses a significant challenge to oppressive governments.