In an interview conducted before his reading at Skylight Books in November, author John Jeremiah Sullivan reflected on his writing influences and experiences. When asked about who has influenced his work, Sullivan paused before saying, "I don't know." He acknowledged the difficulty of pinpointing influences, noting that many writers often engage in wishful thinking when discussing their inspirations.
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Sullivan’s essays, particularly in his collection *Pulphead*, draw comparisons to those of David Foster Wallace. His work encompasses a wide range of topics, from Christian rock to 19th-century botanist Constantine Rafinesque, and he engages each subject with curiosity and an open mind. He expressed satisfaction that critics perceive a deep interconnectedness in his writing, stating that he intentionally chose pieces reflecting what he considers his core themes.
During the interview, Sullivan discussed the evolution of his style, the challenges of revising his essays, and his background in editing. He said his time as an editor was educational, providing him valuable insights into the writing process. However, he noted that it can be difficult to silence that editorial voice when creating his own work.
Born in Louisville, Kentucky, Sullivan grew up in Southern Indiana. His first book, *Blood Horses*, is a mix of memoir and reflection on his father's influence as a writer. He recalled moving to New York in the late nineties, shortly before 9/11, which had a significant impact on his experience as a writer in the city.
Sullivan’s initial interest in music writing was partly inspired by his brother, who engaged deeply with pop music. While he played in several high school bands, he now describes his current musical project, Fayaway, as more conceptual. He mentioned a recent collaboration with writer James Wood, highlighting Wood’s exceptional drumming skills.
Sullivan also discussed the use of the first person in his writing. He approaches it with caution, recognizing its potential to either enhance or detract from a narrative. He believes it is crucial that personal experiences enrich the subject matter rather than serve solely as self-indulgence.
As for reading, Sullivan considers it indispensable to his development as a writer, often drawing inspiration from various texts. Influences for him are complex, evolving over time rather than adhering to a rigid list. He finds the process of recognizing one’s influences to be elusive, noting that many authors may not consciously acknowledge how their interactions with literature shape their writing.
Currently, Sullivan is reading short stories by Tolstoy translated by Pevear and Volokhonsky, highlighting their work as revelatory.