How to come alive with norman mailer

A fascinating topic! Norman Mailer was an American novelist, journalist, and social commentator known for his provocative and often controversial writings. His book "The Executioner's Song" (1979) is a classic example of his work, which explores the themes of violence, morality, and the human condition.

To "come alive" with Norman Mailer, you could explore his writings, ideas, and philosophies. Here are some suggestions:

  1. Read his books: Start with "The Executioner's Song" or other notable works like "Armies of the Night" (1968), "Marilyn: A Biography" (1973), or "Harlot's Ghost" (1991).
  2. Understand his philosophical views: Mailer was influenced by existentialism, Marxism, and psychoanalysis. He believed in the importance of individual freedom, the power of the human imagination, and the need to challenge societal norms.
  3. Explore his journalism: Mailer was a prolific journalist, writing for publications like The New York Times, The Village Voice, and Harper's Magazine. His articles often tackled controversial topics, such as politics, social justice, and the human condition.
  4. Watch documentaries or interviews: There are several documentaries and interviews featuring Norman Mailer, including "Mailer" (1996), a PBS American Masters documentary, and "The Norman Mailer Interviews" (2013), a collection of conversations with Mailer.
  5. Attend a literary festival or event: If you're lucky, you might be able to attend a literary festival or event where Norman Mailer's work is being celebrated or discussed.
  6. Join a book club or discussion group: Engage with others who have read Mailer's work and discuss his ideas, themes, and writing style.
  7. Write your own creative work: Inspired by Mailer's writing, try your hand at creative writing, such as fiction, poetry, or journalism. Explore your own thoughts and ideas, and see how Mailer's influence shapes your work.

By immersing yourself in Norman Mailer's writings, ideas, and philosophies, you can gain a deeper understanding of his work and the world he inhabited. This can help you "come alive" with his spirit, exploring the complexities of human nature and the world around us.