While reading and writing about R. Missing, I found Sharon Shy’s refusal to talk about the art that she’s putting out in the world refreshing — it reminded me of something I read when David Lynch died. He famously hated discussing his films:
“When you finish anything, people want to talk about it. And I think it’s almost like a crime. A film or a painting – each thing is its own sort of language and it’s not right to try to say the same thing in words.”
I’ve been considering ways to engage with the people I write about and link to, but I’m not a natural interviewer. I can’t help but feel that conducting traditional interviews would be time consuming and I’d probably fail to create anything revealing or new.
So, inspired by things like Largehearted Boy and Personal Anthology, here’s The Backstory: willing subjects prepare a list of influences and touchpoints that informed their latest project. Maybe it’s a musician or band discussing what shaped their latest record or EP. Maybe it’s an author’s inspirations for their short stories or latest book.
As for their influences: anything goes: records and books for sure, but it could be an experience, a memory, a scary clown at their fifth birthday party. Our first subject, KAPUT, includes book and music recommendations, but also flea markets and Korean food, and a really special tribute to Steve Albini. It’s an excellent start, and if that becomes the standard then these posts will be an exciting addition to the site.
I have a couple more of these lined up, and a hit list of potential subjects. I’m aiming to put one of these out every week or so, but a lot has to go right for that to happen.
Anyway: stay tuned. If you want to keep up, there’s a bunch of ways to do that. If you want to know more or contribute, email me anytime.
What’s Your Backstory?
The Backstory is a feature where artists share the things that shaped them. I’d love to hear what’s influenced you and your work. If you’d like to share your own story, reach out.
