In the Mind of Faulks

Renowned author Sebastian Faulks recently discussed his latest novel, "The Seventh Son," and the super-rich's behavior at the Henley Literary Festival.

Faulks' Critique of the Super-Rich

Faulks began by condemning the "rules don't apply" attitude prevalent among the super-rich. He highlighted how this mindset extended beyond matters of wealth to encompass ethical and moral considerations. He pointed out that this was a cause for concern, especially when it influenced people's views on issues as significant as mortality and ethics.

Exploring "The Seventh Son"

Faulks's sixteenth book, "The Seventh Son," serves as a prime example of his exploration of complex themes. Set in the year 2030, the novel revolves around a couple undergoing fertility treatment, blissfully unaware of the billionaire clinic owner's tampering with their genetic material. Faulks's research for this book involved consultations with embryologists, leading to a thought-provoking narrative that raises questions about genetic diversity, medical ethics, and human identity.

Avoiding Clichés and Drawing Inspiration

Acknowledging the potential comparisons between one of his characters and billionaire tech CEO Elon Musk, Faulks expressed his desire to steer clear of clichés. Despite this, he candidly admitted that he found inspiration in observing the lives and behaviors of the mega-wealthy over the years.

Faulks underscored the problem when the super-rich's attitude extends to matters of morality and ethics, emphasizing the importance of moral boundaries.

"When considering the prospect of immortality, many may prefer individuals like Jane Austen, Victoria Wood, or Eric Morcambe to be the eternal beneficiaries, rather than Silicon Valley figures. These remarkable personalities have significantly enriched human enjoyment and the tapestry of life."

Faulks's Evolution as a Writer

Faulks's evolving literary journey has transitioned from exploring "Who are we?" in earlier works to probing deeper questions about "What are we? And how might we have been different?" in his recent creations.

As the festival continues until October 8th, attendees can look forward to more stimulating discussions and insights from other literary luminaries.