November 2008. Barack Obama wins the elections and a large part of the American population takes to the streets to celebrate in a way that has not been remembered for a long time. The clamor spreads to other countries in the world, which do not lose sight of the White House, aware that something new is coming. Among Republicans, however, there is discouragement and the feeling that the country is falling apart. Some even conspire and plot how to manipulate public opinion to return to the order that existed before and of which they did have control. It is the last resistance of the white man and the writer A. M. Homes (Washington, 1961) finds enough ingredients to write her novel, The Revelation (Anagrama / Angle Editorial), which began with fables and science fiction, but which has ended up becoming “ something very similar to reality.”
He has been writing about modern American life for almost four decades. What is it that attracts you so much?
How disturbing it is. I always write about human behavior and what makes people do what they do. I look at the space that exists between private and public life.
This is his most political novel. What prompted him to write it?
What happens in the country. I started my book from the 2008 elections with Obama because they were significant. A high percentage of society celebrated the results, but the other felt terrified.
What were they so afraid of?
He had no idea that an African-American would come to power. But I’m sure it would have bothered them even more if Hillary Clinton or any other woman governed. With both options, older white men felt like they were losing control. It happens in all areas and not just in politics. I have lived it myself.
At your job?
The literary world in the United States is very divided between men and women and there is still the idea that women are not capable of writing the great American political novel.
Certain sectors will have been upset that I wrote this book.
The truth is that it does and in part it flatters me. But I also feel sorry that many may question it without having read it. Women’s books are not usually bought by men. It doesn’t matter what topic they discuss.
In his novel he reflects this type of behavior.
It seems to narrate current events, but it was not done on purpose. When I started writing it, half of things hadn’t happened nor had Trump come to power. My editors even told me that it looked like a science fiction novel, and now what it looks like is a chronicle of the day.
Science fiction?
My British editor called me and asked me about the Forever Men, a secret cabal who vow to use any means necessary to keep themselves and their species in power. That is, to white men. In the editorial they couldn’t quite understand why some guys who claim to be protecting democracy do everything to destroy it. But that’s exactly what they do.
Did you think of someone specific?
The Forever Men were the fruit of my imagination, but today you can find examples of similar groups that claim to defend the values of the country.
What are those values?
The word democracy and the definition of what America is change depending on who asks.
And for you?
Much to my regret, I must say that the United States is a racist and sexist country. That hurts me because I think it should be the basis of everything, but it is far from changing.
He is not optimistic.
We are a self-centered country. I don’t care about the system as long as I’m doing well. The news is an example of this. It is very difficult to see the world and be informed in depth about what is happening in other countries when you live in the United States, unless you are especially predisposed to it. Many channels, and especially networks, also provide fake news and, if there is not so much variety or intention to search for it, it is easier to accept a single truth. Many people find it more comfortable to be lied to their face.
What is the reason for this disinterest?
To the strong disconnection of the political establishment with society.
Is that what favors the appearance of extremes?
Definitely. It has happened in the Republican Party itself. The moderates are being replaced by more radical people who have no experience or understanding of history, nor any interest. That’s dangerous. At his side, Republicans of the past who seemed threatening now seem moderate and good. Not that they really were, but the current dynamic is destructive.
Is it something you fear?
A lot. Democracy is in danger. All over the world there are people who have had to leave their country. It is very naive to think that this is not going to happen in the United States because historically the flow of immigrants has come towards us. In fact, it is more than likely that the reverse will begin to happen with the next elections.
