Ep.23: FRANCIS SPUFFORD

In this in-depth interview with host Elena Lappin, novelist and non-fiction writer Francis Spufford discusses his latest novel NONESUCH, set during the London Blitz, blending historical detail with supernatural elements. He explores London's layered history, character development, and the interplay of fact and fiction, offering insights into his creative process and thematic interests.KeywordsFrancis Spufford, Nonesuch, London Blitz, historical fiction, literary fiction, supernatural, city as character, novel writing, creative process, WWII London, fantasy in fiction, fascism, the occult, angels, bombing, war, family, love, early technologyKey topicsBlitz era London and its supernatural reinterpretationLondon as a character in fictionHistorical layers of London and their influence on storytellingGuest nameFrancis Spufford, NovelistNONESUCH is published by Faber sound bites"Play is very serious for a maker.""London is a character in this novel.""The Blitz is London's epic moment."Chapters00:00 Introduction and author background01:08 Setting the scene: London during the Blitz04:37 London's layered history and fictional streets09:40 The supernatural elements and historical occultism14:34 The role of London as a character in the novel19:30 Character development: Iris and her world23:12 Themes of darkness, evil, and supernatural forces27:21 Historical influences and literary inspirations36:47 Transition from nonfiction to fiction writing41:24 Playfulness and imagination in Spufford's writing44:34 The challenge of channeling C.S. Lewis50:24 Belief, faith, and the supernatural in storytelling53:46 Why Francis Spufford writes: storytelling as understanding resourcesNone Such by Francis Spufford - https://www.faber.co.uk/9780571366074-none-such.htmlFrancis Spufford's Official Website - https://francisspufford.comLondon Blitz History - https://www.bbc.co.uk/history/worldwars/wwtwo/blitz_01.shtml guest linksTwitter - https://twitter.com/FrancisBuffordWebsite - https://francisspufford.comSHOP TALK WITH WRITERS is a unique conversation with each author, about the stories behind their books.Subscribe to our monthly newsletter to find out more about each episode, and to engage with our conversations with authors Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.