Paul Auster in conversation about existential doubt, where he finds his inspiration, and the writing of his longest novel to date, 4 3 2 1.
Granta’s online editor Luke Neima interviews the novelist Paul Auster about his most recent book, 4 3 2 1. They touch on the inspiration for his latest novel – the longest of his career – the differences between fate and chance, and embedding historical events into fiction.
Paul Auster’s 4 3 2 1 is available now from Faber & Faber.
‘I think there should be a National Service of Hospitality. The best way to see the true face of humanity is to serve it a plate of chips.’
Camilla Grudova on bad-mannered customers.
‘Anyone who has ever worked night shifts will understand the vertiginous feeling that comes with staring down the day from the wrong end.’
A.K. Blakemore on working nights.
‘I was constantly reading job ads, trying to find my holy grail – a job I could stand to do, and someone foolish enough to hire me.’
Sandra Newman on learning how to play professional blackjack.
‘I loved being a receptionist. What I loved about it was playing the part of being a receptionist.’
Emily Berry on being a temporary office worker.
‘Every part of you would swell, including your eyeballs, and no matter how much water you drank, you were always dehydrated.’
Junot Díaz on working for a steel mill.
