I think The word Gonzalo chose to use to describe Vian's work is
probably the most apt -- 'parody'. There is more than a streak of
parody in all of his work. But I don't think he thought he was superior
to the genre. I think he was just having fun (and, yeah, probably
making a quick buck). Likewise his 'America bashing'. I think he had a
genuine liking for certain aspects of American culture. This is a man
who loved jazz and hung out with Duke Ellington. You don't have to hate
America to hate segregation.
It's funny, the visceral reaction Vian generates. I get worked up in a
similar way about Frank Miller. Which is not to say I don't see what
others see in him.
Sean Shapiro
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