Jeff VanderMeer Discusses Genre Blending, Thrilling Suspense, and His Latest Ecological Thriller with Meg Gardiner
Jeff VanderMeer's latest novel, "Hummingbird Salamander," offers a captivating exploration of eco-terrorism, wildlife trafficking, and climate change. In an email interview, VanderMeer discusses the inspiration behind this timely and thought-provoking thriller.
Meg Gardiner, author and fellow genre-blender, asks VanderMeer about the origin of the story. VanderMeer attributes the start of the novel to the success of his book "Annihilation" in 2014, which opened up opportunities to discuss environmental issues and take action. Through various initiatives, such as documenting the rewilding of his yard, encouraging wildlife-friendly practices in urban areas, and advocating for environmental politics, VanderMeer found a two-way dialogue with ecologists and students who sought urgency instorytelling about the climate crisis.
One morning, the character and initial situation for the novel came to VanderMeer—a woman receiving a taxidermied hummingbird that is extinct. As the story unfolds, readers are drawn into a complex narrative centered on traumatic loss, both personal and ecological.
When asked about the classification of the novel, VanderMeer describes it as a thriller-mystery set in the near future. He explains that the "weird" element lies in the portrayal of a dysfunctional and strange reality. VanderMeer's protagonist, "Jane Smith," is a security consultant who lives in an unspecified city, helping to create a noir atmosphere.
The novel incorporates thriller elements that VanderMeer consciously wove into the plot, having studied the craft of writing thrillers and mysteries. The noir aspect contributes to the psychological twist of the protagonist and the dark absurdity of the present-day world.
Gardiner inquires about Jane Smith's character inspiration. According to VanderMeer, the character was conceived as a former wrestler and amateur bodybuilder, with a physical presence that sets her apart. As Jane's personality and backstory developed, VanderMeer drew on elements from his own life, such as his wife's career aspirations and their shared rural upbringing.
VanderMeer faced specific challenges while writing "Hummingbird Salamander." As he endeavored to portray an environmental awakening for the character, he ensured that her thoughts, feelings, and expressions accurately reflected those of a person experiencing such a transformation. Additionally, he followed a pulse or beat typical of noir stories to maintain the novel's rhythm.
When asked about her feline companion Neo, VanderMeer shares that their cat has been a source of comfort during the pandemic. Despite being occasionally spoiled, Neo is a cherished friend in the VanderMeer household.
Through "Hummingbird Salamander," VanderMeer continues his exploration of the complex relationship between humans, nature, and technology, using a gripping narrative to capture readers' attention and stir their thoughtfulness about the state of the environment.
In the interview, VanderMeer classifies "Hummingbird Salamander" as a thriller-mystery set in the near future, featuring a unique blend of noir elements and psychological thriller suspense. The protagonist, Jane Smith, is a former wrestler and amateur bodybuilder, whose character development is partly inspired by aspects of VanderMeer's personal life. Amidst the challenges of portraying an environmental awakening and maintaining the novel's rhythm, VanderMeer also shares that his feline companion, Neo, has been a source of comfort during the pandemic.
