The FAAM Four is a series of brief interviews with Indigenous artists across nations and disciplines.
Brandon Hobson (Cherokee Nation) is the author of Where the Dead Sit Talking, which was longlisted for this year’s National Book Award in Fiction. (Award winners will be announced on Nov. 14.) The novel concerns two Indigenous youths (one Cherokee, the other Kiowa) in foster care in 1980s Oklahoma. Publishers Weekly writes that “Hobson’s narrative control is stunning, carrying the reader through scenes and timelines with verbal grace and sparse detail. Far more than a mere coming-of-age story, this is a remarkable and moving novel.” Hobson is also the author of the novels Deep Ellum and Desolation of Avenues Untold. He lives in Oklahoma with his wife and two sons.
What art is interesting/inspiring to you right now?
I find writers such as Diane Williams, Shirley Jackson, and Osama Alomar inspiring right now. I’m also inspired by newer, younger Indigenous writers such as Erika Wurth and Tommy Orange. I’m currently listening to The Pixies, one of my favorite bands. Their dark lyrics always inspire me.
What are you working on right now?
I’m currently working on a novel.
What is the best advice you’ve received as an artist?
A former teacher, Stewart O’Nan, always quoted one of his former teachers: “The ones who stick with it are the ones who make it.”
Where can people find your work?
My work can be found on my website (brandonhobson.com) as well as in bookstores and online.