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.
Keywords
Francis 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 technology
Key topics
Blitz era London and its supernatural reinterpretation
London as a character in fiction
Historical layers of London and their influence on storytelling
Guest name
Francis Spufford, Novelist
NONESUCH 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."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and author background
01:08 Setting the scene: London during the Blitz
04:37 London's layered history and fictional streets
09:40 The supernatural elements and historical occultism
14:34 The role of London as a character in the novel
19:30 Character development: Iris and her world
23:12 Themes of darkness, evil, and supernatural forces
27:21 Historical influences and literary inspirations
36:47 Transition from nonfiction to fiction writing
41:24 Playfulness and imagination in Spufford's writing
44:34 The challenge of channeling C.S. Lewis
50:24 Belief, faith, and the supernatural in storytelling
53:46 Why Francis Spufford writes: storytelling as understanding
resources
None Such by Francis Spufford - https://www.faber.co.uk/9780571366074-none-such.html
Francis Spufford's Official Website - https://francisspufford.com
London Blitz History - https://www.bbc.co.uk/history/worldwars/wwtwo/blitz_01.shtml
guest links
Twitter - https://twitter.com/FrancisBufford
Website - https://francisspufford.com
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