On the Media: "In John Waters' Home (But Not In His Colon)"
Release Date: September 28, 2022 | Host: Anna Sale | Featured Guest: John Waters
Introduction
In this engaging episode of On the Media, host Anna Sale delves into the vibrant and provocative world of filmmaker and novelist John Waters. Celebrated for his cult classics like Pink Flamingos and Hairspray, Waters brings his unique blend of humor and rebellion to his debut novel, A Feel Bad Romance. The conversation explores Waters' creative process, personal anecdotes, friendships, and his perspectives on aging and societal norms.
John Waters' New Book and Work
John Waters introduces his novel A Feel Bad Romance, describing it as "an incredibly dirty romp" that pushes boundaries with its raunchy content. The main character, Marcia Sprinkle, is portrayed as a complex individual—a criminal and a liar with a troubled backstory that adds depth to her persona.
- Waters (04:17): “My women characters are better than my main characters, I think.”
Anna Sale shares her personal experience of reading the novel, highlighting its explicit nature which even made her uncomfortable enough to pause her reading on a plane.
- Sale (03:01): “I had to put the book down because I felt too embarrassed to be reading it in public.”
Writing Process and Creativity
Waters discusses his meticulous writing habits, emphasizing his preference for solitude during the creative process. He handwrites his drafts, later recording them to assist his assistants in understanding his rhythm and storytelling style.
- Waters (06:37): “I make a tape of it so they can listen as we go along. I burn those tapes, nobody hears the tape.”
He also touches on the importance of humor in his work, aiming to make his narratives feel spontaneous and authentic.
- Waters (07:26): “I always want it to sound like I'm telling you a story.”
Personal Life and Family
Raised Catholic by his mother, Patricia Ann, Waters shares heartfelt anecdotes about his upbringing and the influence of his parents on his artistic journey.
- Waters (09:30): “We called her Queen Elizabeth. She was very. She taught me good taste.”
He recounts a humorous incident involving his parents' reaction to his provocative art, illustrating the generational gap in understanding his work.
- Waters (10:50): “I dedicated the book to you all. She said, nothing you can do with Shaw goes anymore.”
Business Acumen and Career
Despite his rebellious image, Waters reveals a strong grasp of business principles, a trait he attributes to his father. He discusses the challenges of the film industry, from securing funding to navigating test screenings.
- Waters (12:07): “I learned the business. I learned how to fight in it.”
His relationship with his accountant showcases his disciplined approach to managing finances.
- Waters (17:25): “Every receipt goes in... All boarding passes too, to print, so I make sure I get all those frequent flyer miles.”
Friendships and Social Circle
Waters emphasizes the value of long-term friendships, describing his diverse circle that includes heiresses, business moguls, and even individuals with criminal backgrounds.
- Waters (23:14): “I don't trust people that don't have old friends. Something's the matter with them if they don't.”
He shares a quirky story about a friend who stole a flight attendant's pocketbook, highlighting the eclectic nature of his relationships.
- Waters (18:26): “She was a true outlaw.”
Aging and Physical Health
At 76, Waters reflects candidly on aging and the physical challenges that come with it, such as back pain. Despite these changes, his active lifestyle as a touring performer keeps him on the move.
- Waters (27:07): “I'm 76. I'm not middle aged. I'm not 152.”
He humorously likens the mundanity of bodily functions to elements of his novel's character, showcasing his trademark irreverence.
- Waters (28:06): “I resent that. I have to have a bowel movement. It's the only good thing about being dead.”
Themes in His Novel
Waters delves into the obsessive behaviors of his characters, exploring what drives individuals to fixate on specific pursuits to the detriment of their ordinary lives.
- Waters (31:02): “Why are they so obsessed with that one thing? Why can't they see that it's unreasonable?”
He draws parallels between his own life and his characters, asserting that while his narrative may delve into dark territories, his personal life remains grounded.
- Waters (32:38): “I've worked 76 years to make it as normal.”
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with reflections on the balance between creativity and conformity, underscored by Waters' unwavering commitment to his artistic vision. His ability to navigate the complexities of the creative industry while maintaining meaningful personal relationships offers listeners a comprehensive look into the life of a true provocateur.
Notable Quotes
- John Waters (05:39): “Cause they run the bank really badly.”
- John Waters (17:56): “I have them right on my desk.”
- Anna Sale (29:25): “You're so disgusting.”
Final Thoughts
Anna Sale aptly summarizes Waters' persona, noting his ability to make conversations feel personal and friendly, thereby fostering strong, lasting friendships.
- Sale (23:14): “John Waters makes you feel good. He likes talking and makes it feel like he likes talking to you, which makes you feel interesting, like he's your friend.”
This episode of On the Media offers a deep dive into John Waters' multifaceted life, blending his notorious artistic endeavors with personal insights, making it a must-listen for fans and newcomers alike.
Produced by Zoe Azoulay and Liliana Maria Percy Ruiz. For more episodes, visit On the Media.