Denis Johnson’s wife is now up. She is assuring us that Johnson “is on assignment. Legitimate.” She is now reading an acceptance speech.
“Naturally, I’m very grateful to the National Book Foundation for this award and I’m very sorry to miss this one chance to dress up in a tuxedo.”
“And Cindy, who have I forgotten? To all the judges who voted for Tree of Smoke, thank you so much.”
“I’d like to thank God.”
That’s pretty funny — that last line.
Was God one of the Mysterious Two?
All right! Now, Mr. Tata, just don’t you list this a “realist” novel!
This is one of ours!
The real thing!
Nice work, Ed. I was tuned in the whole time. Thanks for the coverage.
Yes, thanks for setting this up.
Had just finished reading Tree of Smoke a few hours before the announcement–would have liked to see Junot Diaz get the nod, but pleased with the choice.