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Jay McInerney - Bright Lights, Big City

American writer Jay McInerney discusses his debut novel Bright Lights, Big City, which established him as the chronicler of New York's hedonistic 1980s elite. With James Naughtie.

American writer Jay McInerney discusses his debut novel Bright Lights, Big City with James Naughtie and a group of readers.

Bright Lights, Big City not only cemented Jay McInerney as a superstar among debut novelists, but came to define the culture of 80s New York in all its gritty yet glamorous glory.

We follow the young unnamed narrator - he's 'You' throughout the book - during a whirlwind week in New York. He is bored with his job on a Manhattan magazine, wants to be a writer, and has been abandoned by his fashion-model wife. By night he roams the brightly lit streets of the city, hanging out in clubs and loft parties, powered by "Bolivian Marching Powder". By the time his crazy week is over the emptiness returns.

Presenter : James Naughtie
Interviewed guest : Jay McInerney
Producer : Dymphna Flynn

January's Bookclub choice : Capital by John Lanchester (2012).

Available now

28 minutes

Last on

Thu 8 Dec 2016 15:30

Credits

Role Contributor
Presenter James Naughtie
Interviewed Guest Jay McInerney
Presenter Dymphna Flynn

Broadcasts

  • Sun 4 Dec 2016 16:00
  • Thu 8 Dec 2016 15:30

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