Ben Marcus is something of a new god in the world of fiction, and especially so to those who consider themselves fans of the “experimental.” Though Marcus shies from being viewed as a leader of some sort of movement, his first two books, The Age of Wire and String and Notable American Women have thrust him into flag-bearer position as representative of an increasing freedom of style in American literature. The New York resident is now touring in support of his latest (and most “conventional”) book, The Flame Alphabet, so we called him up prior to his reading for the New Fiction Confab to talk religion and the future of literature, as well as getting pissed off about expectations. more ›

Way back in 1984, William Gibson revolutionized science fiction and established himself as one of the world’s most influential writers with the publication of his first novel Neuromancer, which launched the cyberpunk subgenre. Influenced by punk and writing with a noir sensibility, his influence on film, technology, and the aforementioned genre of science fiction can’t be overstated. With his newest novel, Zero History, Gibson continues his recent trend of writing about a contemporary world where science fiction is becoming reality. He is scheduled to be in Austin today at the Arboretum Barnes and Noble at 7:00 PM. Last week he graciously agreed took the time to answer our questions. more ›

Everyone’s favorite Donnie Darko shout-out author, Graham Greene, has apparently had a hidden work unearthed by a Greene scholar named Francois Gallix, who was doing time here at the Harry Ransom Center. Right here in Austin. Over a year ago, but whatever. To some of us, this is still big news. more ›

Between the house party and the club show lies the nebulous House Show, a tricky hybrid that attempts to straddle the world of booking, touring, sound checks and bartenders with your average party, the kind punctuated by loud talk, dark rooms, and limited toilets. At face value, a house show really just requires two things: a band or musician willing to play, and house to host him or her. Even electricity isn't a given, as many acoustic-based, un-miked shows have flourished in Austin living rooms, to be sure more ›

Sarah Bird: Like all sad little people who are compelled to amuse, to “be funny,” Phil was a hollow shell wrapped around a thin layer of repressed aggression, shot through with insecurity and competitiveness, all covered in a candy coating laced with strychnine. So, essentially, for me, this would be an autobiography. more ›

While it’s an established fact that The Church of the Friendly Ghost can be relied upon for the unusual, the unabashed, and the extreme – everything from noise bands to crazy projectionists to avant-jazz trios have showed up on the Salvage Vanguard’s stage these last few months – sometimes they like to surprise by pulling a sharp turn right into accessibility, charm and simplicity. And that’s what we can expect for Tuesday night’s show, four bands who stray from the beaten path enough to keep you interested but who are also mostly avant-garde tomfoolery-free. more ›