Pynchon/Vollmann

[Kyle Sturgeon]

Not at all touchy.  I actually prefer Pynchon to Vollmann in many respects.
I think the clear and relatively simple possibility remains that an older
writer can be influenced by a strong younger one.  It just isn't enough to
say that:

1.  Since Vollmann is (arguably) influenced by Pynchon that Pynchon, though
older, may not (arguably) be influenced by Vollmann
and/or
2.  Pynchon's touching on some themes prior to Vollmann precludes his being
influenced by Vollmann's writing later in his literary career.

I just find it significant that M&D (97) shares stunning thematic
similarities with the Seven Dreams Book (90, 92, 94).

I admit a theoretical disposition towards ideas of influence.

Check out Keith Gessen's mention of Pynchon/Vollmann in his review of AtD.
He obviously prefers Pynchon.

Frankly, though, outside of thematic territory, I don't find much in common
b/w P&V.
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