Richard Ford (Author Interview) (April 17, 1996)

Richard Ford discusses his recent awards, including the Pulitzer Prize and Pen Faulkner Award for his novel 'Independence Day'. He explores the deeper themes of independence in his work, reads a passage from the novel, and talks about the character Frank Bascombe. Ford shares insights into his writing process, his connection to the Southern literary tradition, and his future writing projects.

What awards did Richard Ford win for his novel 'Independence Day'?

• Nobel Prize and Pen Faulkner Award

• Pulitzer Prize and Pen Faulkner Award

• Booker Prize and National Book Award

• Pulitzer Prize and Booker Prize

What is the fictional setting of 'Independence Day'?

• Princeton, New Jersey

• Hadam, New Jersey

• Montclair, New Jersey

• Trenton, New Jersey

Why did Richard Ford decide to revisit the character Frank Bascombe?

• He was inspired by another author

• He wanted to explore new themes

• He found his notes were in Frank's voice

• He wanted to write a sequel

What themes does Frank Bascombe deal with in 'Independence Day'?

• Adventure and mystery

• Regret and humor

• Wealth and power

• Love and betrayal

How does Richard Ford describe his writing process?

• He writes spontaneously without planning

• He makes notes and organizes them into a coherent narrative

• He relies on inspiration from other authors

• He writes only when he feels motivated

What does Richard Ford say about the Southern tradition in writing?

• It is a significant influence on his work

• It is more prominent than other regional traditions

• It only includes white writers

• It is a myth with no real basis

What is Richard Ford's next writing project?

• A novel set in Mississippi

• A biography of a famous author

• A short story collection

• A novella set in Paris