The German cult hit project is an exercise in wish-fulfilment.
In a nutshell, George would like his work to become popular in Germany. And by popular, one must be realistic. This could mean (theoretically) popular in the sense of being a "cult hit." Becoming a cult hit in Germany is the stated objective of the German cult hit project. Now, it is up to Germany to participate in this interactive project.
Here is the first fake press release on the topic:
December 11, 2003
for general release
Canadian writer really wants to be "cult hit" in Germany
Vancouver writer George Ilsley, author of Random Acts of Hatred, has confessed that his ambitions extend outside of Canada.
And he has identified Germany as being "top of the list" for having "cult hit potential."
"My collection is dark and twisted," Ilsley says, "and Germans love that. Germans are famous for their bleak, warped humor, and their fascination with weird sex, so I’m thinking my book is perfect for them."
Random Acts of Hatred has graphic scenes of child abuse, incest, rape, and family dysfunction, although Ilsley says, "that’s just one story." Other stories feature characters as diverse as a sissy boy anorexic, obnoxious tourists, competitive swimmers, and a cheating bisexual husband.
For many Canadian artists, being popular in Germany is a rite of passage. "Ever since I got serious about my writing," Ilsley confirms, "that’s when I started thinking about Germany."
More recently, George instructed a Canadian traveller to Germany to perch in as many cafes as humanly possible with a copy of ManBug prominently displayed, in order to jump-start the inevitable buzz.
The German cult hit project is now underway. Resistance is futile.
George has never visited Germany but is keen to do so. Looking for opportunities such as writer-in-residence, writer’s retreat, literary festivals, artists’ colony, German language publishers. For that matter, eager to be housesitter and/or companion animal to an amber-eyed Weimaraner.
Contact the German with ideas, invitations, and feedback.
Danke.
