Writers, like elephants, have long, vicious memories. There are things I wish I could forget

Writers, like elephants, have long, vicious memories. There are things I wish I could forget

William S. Burroughs, the iconic Beat Generation writer, was known for his dark and experimental writing style that often delved into the depths of human depravity and addiction. His works, such as "Naked Lunch" and "Junky," explored themes of drug abuse, homosexuality, and violence in a raw and unapologetic manner. Burroughs himself lived a tumultuous life filled with personal struggles and tragedies, which undoubtedly influenced his writing.

The quote, "Writers, like elephants, have long, vicious memories. There are things I wish I could forget," is particularly poignant when applied to Burroughs. Throughout his life, he experienced a great deal of trauma and loss, including the accidental death of his wife Joan Vollmer, whom he shot in a drunken game of William Tell. This event haunted Burroughs for the rest of his life, and he often spoke of his deep regret and guilt over the incident.