No Relation: The Impact, Imitators and Legacy of David Foster Wallace

Is there any figure in the recent history of American literature who has generated as much cringe-inducing veneration – or as much dismay – as the late David Foster Wallace? During his lifetime, the author of Infinite Jest, Brief Interviews with Hideous Men and many celebrated essays and articles was a cult figure of soaring intellect, dizzying creative ambition and slightly questionable fashion sense. Many were frustrated by his work (New Yorker literary critic James Wood placed his work in the derogatory category of ‘hysterical realism’) while others saw him as a genius. His status as one of the most influential writers of the 20th century has only grown since his death in 2008.

In this special event, DFW acolytes Sam Cooney, Ronnie Scott, Melinda Houston and Steph Harmon explore Foster Wallace’s legacy for writers and artists. They discuss his impact on popular culture, the scourge of lesser imitators and how the film The End of the Tour celebrates the work of this extraordinary writer.