Nostalgia is partly illusion in that we remember things differently as we get older, etc. But that doesn't mean, when historians look back on the 1950s, say, from the year 2090, it won't be judged as a saner, slower, less narcissistic, more family-focused, and economically secure time.
Donald Ray PollockI don't think I'd call [mood] a major force, but it is important as far as hitting the right notes or nuances with a character or scene.
Donald Ray PollockThe humor I came up with is, for the most part, a bit crude or guttural, and many people aren't going to get it or enjoy it, but some do, and that means a lot to me - to know that I made someone laugh.
Donald Ray PollockI do believe the world is a pretty sad, troubled, and violent place. Maybe that's why I focus on the trouble. Even though there are good people and good things, there's also a bunch of messed up stuff. And I learned early on, you have to have some trouble in your stories. I definitely go overboard on that, but I have a lot more fun writing about the trouble.
Donald Ray PollockI think my characters - well, at least a few of them - are hoping or searching for some kind of contact with god.
Donald Ray Pollock