Episode Summary: Celebrating 100 Years of Edward Gorey
Podcast Information:
- Title: The Book Review
- Host/Author: The New York Times
- Episode: Celebrating 100 Years of Edward Gorey
- Release Date: February 21, 2025
Introduction
In this special episode of The Book Review, host Gilbert Cruz and guest Sadie Stein delve into the life and legacy of the beloved author and illustrator Edward Gorey, commemorating the centenary of his birth. Shifting focus back to the literary realm after a brief series on Oscar-nominated films, Cruz and Stein explore Gorey’s distinctive style, his most famous works, and his enduring influence on the literary and artistic communities.
Discovering Edward Gorey
Initial Encounters
Gilbert Cruz reflects on his first encounter with Gorey's work, recounting his childhood experience with John Bellairs' Gothic mysteries illustrated by Gorey. He shares:
"[...] I read a bunch of those when I was a kid and I thought the illustrations were creepy and memorable, but I had no idea who [Gorey] was."
[05:44] Gilbert Cruz
Sadie Stein describes her introduction to Gorey through her best friend's collection of The Gashlycrumb Tinies and the Amphigory anthologies, emphasizing the pervasive presence of Gorey's art in her life:
"You have been surrounded by Edward Gorey. You have been swimming in the world of Edward Gorey your whole life, whether you know it or not."
[02:10] Sadie Stein
Edward Gorey: The Man and His Art
Artistic Style and Themes
Gorey's work is characterized by black-and-white pen and ink illustrations, filled with intricate hatching and cross-hatching. His narratives often feature characters in Edwardian and Victorian attire, with a recurring theme of children in peril. Cruz notes the subtlety of Gorey's menace:
"You don't see that much violence in his books, although violence is always on the edges of all of his books."
[02:51] Gilbert Cruz
Stein adds that Gorey's world balances coziness with creepiness, creating a Gothic atmosphere:
"The world is both cozy and creepy."
[03:10] Sadie Stein
Notable Works
The Gashlycrumb Tinies
Perhaps Gorey’s most renowned work, The Gashlycrumb Tinies presents an alphabet of children meeting grisly ends, from "A is for Amy who fell down the stairs" to "Z is for Zilla who drank too much gin." Cruz expresses his affection for the book’s dark humor:
"I love the grim and ironic and more than a little funny 'Gashlycrumb Tinies', as do countless people the world over."
[00:00] Gilbert Cruz
The Unstrung Harp
Assigned to Cruz's college class, this book explores the struggles of Mr. Earbrass, a writer beset by the arduous process of creating and publishing a novel. Stein highlights its portrayal of the torturous writing journey:
"Edward Gorey somehow in one of his first books gets across how painful and torturous and tedious and terrible it is to think of an idea to write the book."
[07:03] Gilbert Cruz
The Doubtful Guest
This story features a penguin-like creature causing chaos in a family’s mansion, remaining as a constant, somewhat menacing presence. Stein discusses its interpretation as an allegory for unexpected changes, such as the arrival of a child:
"Everyone just has to get used to it."
[29:51] Gilbert Cruz & Sadie Stein
Biography of Edward Gorey
Early Life and Education
Born in Chicago, Edward Gorey’s early life was marked by his parents' divorce and his stepmother’s memorable cameo in Casablanca. Despite limited formal art training, Gorey honed his skills through influences like his great-grandmother's greeting card designs and his time at Harvard, where he was roommates with poet Frank O’Hara.
Career Highlights
From 1953 to 1960, Gorey worked for Doubleday’s art department, illustrating numerous book covers. His association with the Gotham Bookmart, a legendary New York bookstore and salon for avant-garde writers and artists, played a pivotal role in establishing his reputation. Andreas Brown, the bookstore's owner, published 15 of Gorey’s books and hosted his signings, significantly contributing to his avant-garde status.
"He was incredibly prolific and his estate still has all this unpublished work. He was Joyce Carroll Oates, like in his output."
[13:25] Sadie Stein
Personal Passions
Gorey was deeply passionate about ballet, particularly the New York City Ballet and choreographer George Balanchine. His obsession with ballet was so intense that he prioritized attending performances over attending the Tony Awards, which he won for set design in Dracula.
"He was the ultimate duvelta mane. He did some incredible balletic drawings which are worth seeking out."
[16:04] Sadie Stein
The Edward Gorey House and Museum
Located in Yarmouth Port, Cape Cod, the Edward Gorey House and Museum preserves his legacy, housing thousands of his books, illustrations, and personal items. Cruz describes a particularly engaging feature:
"Hidden around the house are tableaux or references to each of the 26 deaths from the Gashlycrumb Tinies... It's morbid, slightly sick and absolutely delightful."
[17:54] Gilbert Cruz
The museum offers interactive experiences, such as a scavenger hunt that allows visitors to engage with Gorey’s work in a playful yet macabre manner.
Legacy and Influence
Cultural Impact
Edward Gorey is often labeled a cult figure, yet his widespread recognition suggests a broader cultural impact. Stein argues that his influence extends beyond niche audiences, highlighting his genial nature and the affection his fans have for him:
"I think that's the rare case where I think it applies because he created something wholly his own, something new. It changed the way we see the world."
[27:14] Sadie Stein
Literary Genius
Stein passionately defends Gorey’s genius, citing his unique ability to blend ornate and spare elements in both his writing and illustrations:
"He created something wholly his own, something new. It changed the way we see the world. You can find a tremendous amount in it."
[27:22] Sadie Stein
Influence on Modern Works
Gorey’s aesthetic and thematic elements continue to inspire contemporary authors and illustrators. Stein references collaborations like those between Lisa Brown and Lemony Snicket, showcasing Gorey’s enduring relevance.
Notable Discussions
From Ted to Tom: The Illustrated Envelopes of Edward Gorey
Stein discusses this compilation, which features a series of postcards sent to his friend Tom Fitzharris. The illustrated envelopes display Gorey’s versatility with watercolor and offer a glimpse into his playful correspondence.
"He was extremely opinionated about movie actors, et cetera, and it's kind of another side to him."
[31:29] Sadie Stein
I Know Where I'm Going
Gorey's passion for this Powell and Pressburger film led him and his friend Tom Fitzharris on a memorable trip to Scotland, reflecting his deep appreciation for cinematic art.
"It takes place on a fairly remote Scottish island. [...] It's a romance. It's so good."
[33:10] Sadie Stein
Conclusion
Gilbert Cruz and Sadie Stein celebrate Edward Gorey’s 100th birthday by exploring his unique contributions to literature and illustration. From his eerie yet charming narratives to his profound influence on modern storytelling, Gorey’s legacy as a literary genius remains firmly intact. Stein encapsulates Gorey’s essence by reading a passage from The Fatal Lozenge:
"The baby, lying meek and quiet upon the customary rug, has dreams about rampage and riot and will grow up to be a thug."
[34:33] Sadie Stein
As the episode closes, Cruz invites listeners to engage with Gorey’s work and encourages continued exploration of his fascinating world.
Upcoming Episode:
Next week, join host MJ Franklin and his panel for a discussion on Samantha Harvey's Orbital, the winner of the 2024 Booker Prize.
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