Patron-Only AMA #9 June 2026
A discussion of, among other things, my opinions on appreciating literature written by troubling people, the most disturbing books I have ever read, and which book had the largest impact on my life.
Links:
James Hoffmann | The Coffee Guy: https://www.youtube.com/@jameshoffmann
Comments (10)
The signed copy of Sun and Steel is so cool! It's so sweet that she got you such a rare and unique copy. Knowing the story behind it is also very interesting. From America to Norway and back to America again. It's really quite something! I'm curious about what's written on it, since I was only able to see his name. It's very cool indeed!
Thank you very much! Unfortunately, the only thing written is his name.
“Because there is not money in it” that cracked me up Clif. I feel like Ellis and Chuck Palahniuk are close to that transgressive mainstream thing. Wishing the best for you and your wife on the moving, it’s an awful process. If yall are ever in Austin, yall got a spot to hang out. Coffee on me!
Glad you enjoyed haha, yeah agreed. Thanks I appreciate it, we're getting through it ok. Sounds great, thank you very much!
Thanks for such an insightful response. From my experience, you’re right about the link between a writer’s brilliance and their moral complexity, and that’s exactly what makes it feel a bit unsettling. If I find myself impressed by their work, it raises a question about what that says about me. But maybe that’s part of the shared human condition; we’re all imperfect after all. Thanks again for the perspective, and I hope you have a great day!
My pleasure! Indeed , thanks for your interesting question and hope you have a great day as well.
Great discussion! Incredible copy of Sun & Steel. Really align with you about the state of things re: new transgressive lit. There really is a cloud of personal fear that comes with the surveillance. See: The Right to Oblivion by Lowry Pressly. Same boat as you guys right now. Moved up and down the east coast, now looking at moving out west this year. Moving is such a funny thing. Your perspective really shifts depending on where you are, or mine does anyway. Some people say it doesn't matter where you go/live but I don't find that to be true. Hope AZ works out! Cheers
Thanks very much for all Benjamin, totally agree. Definitely, I have the same experience when moving - It's an exciting aspect. Yeah I have also found that where you live makes a difference. Sometimes all the difference. If you're goin' out west (where the wind blows tall), hope it works out for you too.
Your discussion on separating the art from the artist was eloquent and I tend to agree. Would love to see a long form video on it sometime in the future. Good luck with the move
I appreciate it, thanks very much for all Brandon!