>
> Does anyone know if Willeford ever acknowledged
reading or having been influenced by David Goodis?
> I was really struck recently when reading
Willeford's 'Pick Up' how
> close in style, theme and subject matter -- except
for the twist
> ending -- it was to Goodis's work.
>
> Anyone else have the same reaction?
I agree abut _Pick-Up_, except Springer, like most CW heroes,
loves to eat rich, greasy food and Goodis' heroes seem to eat
only .50 cent chop suey or canned peaches. Alcoholism, a
certain passivity, skilled use of their fists and artistic
talent are marks of Harry Jordan and many Goodis heroes. But
other than that, CW's protagonists are bundles of very
effective social action and vicious betrayal, esp. of anyone
who cares about them or any group they can and sometimes do
help. They seem to have learned these traits from a predatory
social system, which they symbolize. Goodis' heroes are
certainly trapped in themselves also, but they are much more
scrupulous and self-hating. They do end up walking in the
rain. CW's are more scary, and on fire.
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