Discussing with Thurston Moore: A Personal Interview
In an hour-long conversation, Thurston Moore reflects on the creation of his memoir, "Sonic Life"
"Sonic Life," the long-awaited memoir of Thurston Moore, has been hailed as our website's Book of the Year 2023. During a recent video call, Moore discussed the writing process and challenges of recounting his life story.
Passionate about history, Moore's enthusiasm for the past was palpable as he delved into discussions about his writing process and the joys and challenges of recalling such an intriguing and formative life. "I like to retain mystery," Moore confessed.
The idea of writing a memoir seemed unappealing to Moore at first, as he wasn't keen on focusing solely on himself. Instead, he initially considered penning a more music-focused essay. However, as he delved deeper into the recollections of his past, he realized that the structure of a memoir perfectly captured his intended narrative – one that encompassed the cultural climate, the people, and the ephemera that played a crucial role in his journey.
Originally spanning 800 pages, the memoir has since been reduced to 500 pages due to extensive editing. Moore worked closely with an editor in New York City, ensuring that the final product was consistently engaging and accessible to readers. Despite some criticism for not delving deeper into certain personal aspects of his life, Moore opted for a celebratory tone throughout the book, preferring to focus on the positive energy that permeated his experiences rather than dwelling on negativity.
When asked about the length of time it took to write the memoir, Moore shared that the bulk of the writing took place during the pandemic in 2020 and 2021, thanks to the seclusion afforded by the global crisis. The process took approximately three years in total.
Comparing writing a book to creating a record, Moore mentioned that while both projects required completion, the editing process for the book felt collaborative, with his editor providing valuable feedback and guidance on the voice and structure of the book. Conversely, the process of making a record is often more democratic, with Moore's editorial ownership only coming into play at the final stages.
Reflecting on instances where he felt the need to include certain details to serve the narrative of the band, Moore noted that he did not prioritize pleasing an audience in his writing. Instead, he focused on sharing anecdotes that moved the book forward, often featuring memorable interactions with icons such as Patti Smith, Iggy Pop, Nick Cave, and others.
While Moore admits that certain moments from his life resonate strongly and have been etched into his memory, he also acknowledges that memory can be malleable. Collaborating with participants in his narrative, he sought to create a support system that transcended the mere facts presented in the book.
Moore continues to maintain an active role in the cultural landscape, with ongoing involvement in music, publishing, and other creative pursuits. Despite the evolution of the way art and music are consumed over the years, Moore has not found it exhausting or concerning, noting the ongoing importance of communitarian spaces like record stores and the power of community in shaping cultural movements.
Looking ahead, Moore shows no signs of slowing down, with no shortage of enthusiasm for his latest project, "Sonic Life." Fans and readers alike can expect more writing from the prolific musician in the future.
"Sonic Life" (Faber) is now available, with signed copies available at our website. Subscribe to our mailing list to stay informed about exclusive pre-orders, special offers, and more.
Thurston Moore's memoir, "Sonic Life," while being a personal account of his life, also explores the cultural climate and the people that significantly influenced his journey. This music-centric memoir is a testament to Moore's passion for music, and its exploration extends into the realm of music journalism.
As Moore delved deeper into the recollections of his past, he recognized that the structure of a memoir served his narrative best, encompassing not just music, but also the entertainment industry and its associated happenings—thus highlighting its multifaceted influence on his life and career.
