Piece Comment

Review of Norman Mailer Interview


Lydon and Mailer, what a fabulous pairing. A shared love of language, and interest in cultural investigation make for a fast-paced, intelligent and fascinating twenty minutes. The conversation is filled with pithy insights into the essential makeup of the presidential candidates, the country, and the perishable nature of democracy, among other matters. Snappy quotes abound. Production notes offer a few of the many highlights. The length is long for morning or afternoon NPR, but it’s so worth airing, in two parts if need be. Lydon ends by saying it’s been “a pleasure and a privilege to talk…” as it is to listen. This is a must air.