By Jim Lange
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October 12, 2010
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Author David Sedaris. |
Like many people, I discovered the humor of David Sedaris on This American Life. He stood out in every way from the other contributing writers.
His razor sharp observations were not just based in fashionable (and lazy) sarcasm and cynicism. Rather, his observations about people’s follies or odd behavior always rang with a truth that seemed to come from a genuine affection for his subjects.
His perspective is undeniably offbeat, but time and again reaches our funny bones because we recognize ourselves in those stories. Many times, David Sedaris writes what we secretly think and we laugh aloud without restraint at his daring, unapologetic honesty.
Inspiration came at the age of 20 in the form of a diary.
When Sedaris reads his stories aloud, they are lifted off the page and become even more humorous. Also, when others interpret his work, something he personally enjoys, he finds unexpected meaning.
Satire is a large part of Sedaris’ appeal and I wondered if people generally disappoint him.
One of his stories is about the time he took guitar lessons from a midget. I just had to ask.
With the revelation that he was very nervous as a child, I wondered if he ever gets nervous now while performing.
Who would ever volunteer to do a piece on working in a coroner’s office?
The author frequently collects stories from the people who come to his shows. One tour had a theme of collecting 'rudeness' stories.
For years he denied that writing was about catharsis, but since has changed his opinion. Also, I asked why authors can be so prickly to interview.
If you want to listen to the entire interview, click below.
Sedaris interview-the whole enchilada.