In this in-depth interview with host Elena Lappin, novelist and non-fiction writer Francis Spufford discusses his latest novel NONESUCH, set during the London Blitz, blending historical detail with supernatural elements. He explores London's layered history, character development, and the interplay of fact and fiction, offering insights into his creative process and thematic interests.

Keywords

Francis Spufford, Nonesuch, London Blitz, historical fiction, literary fiction, supernatural, city as character, novel writing, creative process, WWII London, fantasy in fiction, fascism, the occult, angels, bombing, war, family, love, early technology

Key topics

Blitz era London and its supernatural reinterpretation

London as a character in fiction

Historical layers of London and their influence on storytelling

Guest name

Francis Spufford, Novelist

NONESUCH is published by Faber

 sound bites

"Play is very serious for a maker."

"London is a character in this novel."

"The Blitz is London's epic moment."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and author background

01:08 Setting the scene: London during the Blitz

04:37 London's layered history and fictional streets

09:40 The supernatural elements and historical occultism

14:34 The role of London as a character in the novel

19:30 Character development: Iris and her world

23:12 Themes of darkness, evil, and supernatural forces

27:21 Historical influences and literary inspirations

36:47 Transition from nonfiction to fiction writing

41:24 Playfulness and imagination in Spufford's writing

44:34 The challenge of channeling C.S. Lewis

50:24 Belief, faith, and the supernatural in storytelling

53:46 Why Francis Spufford writes: storytelling as understanding

 resources

None Such by Francis Spufford - https://www.faber.co.uk/9780571366074-none-such.html

Francis Spufford's Official Website - https://francisspufford.com

London Blitz History - https://www.bbc.co.uk/history/worldwars/wwtwo/blitz_01.shtml

 guest links

Twitter - https://twitter.com/FrancisBufford

Website - https://francisspufford.com

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