The Son Also Rises
In this interview with Alex Rollins Berg, Substack (June 2024), John Buffalo Mailer reflects on the life, work, and legacy of his father, Norman Mailer. Speaking with candor and warmth, he acknowledges the complexities of growing up in the shadow of a literary giant, while highlighting NM’s courage in tackling the most difficult and divisive issues of his time—from war and politics to sexuality and violence. John Buffalo discusses his own artistic journey and how it has been shaped by both admiration for and critical engagement with his father’s work. He comments on the current cultural climate, lamenting the decline of fearless public discourse and the arts’ diminished role in fostering meaningful dialogue. The interview offers fresh personal insight into Norman Mailer’s enduring relevance and invites renewed appreciation for his contributions to American letters.
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