The Last Contract: William T. Vollmann's Battle to Publish an Epic (2025)
12 hours ago
- #resilience
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- William T. Vollmann faced multiple personal and professional challenges, including colon cancer, the death of his daughter, being dropped by his publisher, and a car accident.
- Vollmann spent over a decade researching and writing 'A Table for Fortune,' a 3,000-page novel about the CIA, which Viking initially rejected due to its length and production costs.
- After being dropped by Viking, Vollmann's agent, Susan Golomb, found a new publisher, Arcade Publishing, which agreed to publish the novel in four volumes, maintaining Vollmann's vision for fonts and design.
- Vollmann's personal struggles, including his daughter's death and health issues, deeply affected his work and outlook, leading him to reflect on his career and life.
- The publishing industry's shift towards cost-cutting and virtual interactions has made it harder for authors like Vollmann, who prioritize artistic integrity over commercial viability.
- Despite setbacks, Vollmann remains committed to his craft, with 'A Table for Fortune' set for release in 2026, showcasing his resilience and dedication to storytelling.