Cormac McCarthy, the reclusive and acclaimed American novelist, discusses his interest in Mojave rattlesnakes and his recent trip near the Texas-Mexico border. McCarthy is known for his intense natural observation and brutal depictions of violence in his novels. He has a fascination with the Southwest desert, which serves as a metaphor for the nihilistic violence in his works. McCarthy’s prose is characterized by its spareness and biblical gravity. Despite his lack of commercial success, McCarthy is highly regarded by a small group of writers and academics.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cormac McCarthy’s Venomous Fiction | Increase in recognition and popularity of Cormac McCarthy | McCarthy becomes a widely recognized and celebrated author | The unique and compelling nature of McCarthy’s writing style and themes |
| McCarthy’s fascination with nature and violence | McCarthy’s focus on natural observation and nihilistic violence | McCarthy’s exploration of the natural world and violence becomes more prevalent in his work | McCarthy’s personal interest and desire to explore these themes |
| McCarthy’s reclusive nature | McCarthy’s avoidance of literary life and public attention | McCarthy continues to avoid interviews and public appearances | McCarthy’s desire for solitude and focus on his writing |
| McCarthy’s unique writing style | McCarthy’s spare, stylized prose | McCarthy’s prose continues to be characterized by minimal punctuation and precise language | McCarthy’s desire to create powerful and impactful writing |
| McCarthy’s unconventional lifestyle | McCarthy’s rejection of traditional jobs and living arrangements | McCarthy continues to live a minimalist and nomadic lifestyle | McCarthy’s independence and desire to prioritize his writing |
| McCarthy’s love of the Southwest | McCarthy’s focus on the desert and Southwest as a setting | McCarthy’s exploration of the Southwest becomes a consistent theme in his work | McCarthy’s personal fascination and connection to the Southwest region |
| McCarthy’s lack of recognition and sales | McCarthy’s novels having limited sales and recognition | McCarthy’s novels gain wider readership and acclaim | The unique and compelling nature of McCarthy’s writing style and themes |