Magical Creativity: Alex Jennings and the Ballad of Perilous Graves
Alex Jennings is a writer, editor, teacher, and poet living in New Orleans. He is the author of the debut novel "The Ballad of Perilous Graves" and is known for his love of music, film, and comics.
Alex shares how his father's wish for a fantasy novel with a black hero influenced his writing. Alex describes his debut novel, "The Ballad of Perilous Graves," a black exploitation Pippi Longstocking adventure set in a version of New Orleans where music is a kind of sorcery. He talks about the writing process and the challenges he faced in bringing the novel to life. Alex also discusses the importance of representation in his work, including a trans character with powerful magic. He shares how living in New Orleans has influenced his creativity and helped him understand the importance of community in his work.
During this conversation:
- Step into the captivating narrative of "The Ballad of Perilous Graves," Alex Jennings' debut novel that fuses the vibrancy of black exploitation with the enchantment of Pippi Longstocking, creating an uncharted adventure in a New Orleans world where music wields magical powers.
- Join the exploration of the novel's rich tapestry as we delve into its profound examination of representation, guided by the journey of a trans character wielding formidable magic and navigating themes that resonate with today's discourse.
- Embark on a literary journey as Alex Jennings unveils the intricate evolution of his writing process, inspired by his father's longing for a fantasy novel with a black hero, and follow the decade-long path to crafting a story that merges imagination with cultural significance.
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of New Orleans through Alex's lens, as we delve into how the city's sense of community has become a wellspring of inspiration, leaving an indelible mark on his creative identity and influencing the narratives he weaves.
Join host Rob Lee as he delves into the creative mind of writer Alex Jennings. From comics to music, they discuss the influences behind his debut novel on The Truth in This Art podcast!
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This program is supported (in part) by a grant from the Robert W. Deutsch Foundation.
If you have a story about art, culture, or community, share it with us at rob@thetruthinthisart.com for a chance to be featured on 'The Truth In This Art' podcast.
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Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard.
Episode illustration by Alley Kid Art.
About "The Truth In This Art"
If you have a story about art, culture, or community, share it with us at rob@thetruthinthisart.com for a chance to be featured on 'The Truth In This Art' podcast.
Follow The Truth In This Art on Twitter, Threads, IG, and Facebook @truthinthisart
Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard.
Episode illustration by Alley Kid Art.
About "The Truth In This Art"
"The Truth In This Art," hosted by Rob Lee, is a podcast that explores the essence of creativity and its community impact, amplifying artists' voices and their profound stories.
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Creators and Guests
Host
Rob Lee
The Truth In This Art is an interview series featuring artists, entrepreneurs and tastemakers in & around Baltimore.
Guest
ALEX JENNINGS
Writer/editor, author of THE BALLAD OF PERILOUS GRAVES. (Redhook, 2022.) First-ever Imagination Unbound Fellow at Under the Volcano, 2022. (he/him)