John Keene with Tân Khánh Cao: October 30, 2015

Stephen Sparks introduces John Keene, who reads his story "Acrobatique," narrated from the point of view of Black circus performer Miss La La of the Cirque Fernando, subject of Edgar Degas's 1879 painting,

Visual artist and bookseller Tan Khanh Cao and John Keene discuss themes, inspirations, and intent within the stories of Counternarratives. Cao and Keene first remark on the theme of freedom in "Acrobatique" and other stories. Cao remarks on oppression and slavery as peripheral subjects for his characters. Keene remarks on his intention to counter the tradition of historical narratives of Black people in the USA that portray oppression as a central part of their being by revealing his character's lived subjectivities. Cao and Keene discuss elements of magic and African spiritual traditions in certain stories. Cao inquires about the variations of naming and lack thereof in his works. The two then discuss The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and its connection to Keene's story, "Rivers." Keene remarks how the book is a conversation with Toni Morrison, William Faulkner, and other authors who have come before him. In response to a question from the audience, he remarks on his time studying under E. L. Doctorow at New York University. Keene also remarks his translation of Letters from a Seducer by Hilda Hilst and his relationship with the Portuguese language.