Summary
"Although Of Course You End Up Becoming Yourself: A Road Trip With David Foster Wallace" by David Lipsky is a unique and intimate exploration of the life and mind of the acclaimed author David Foster Wallace. The book chronicles the five days Lipsky, then a Rolling Stone reporter, spent with Wallace in 1996, following the conclusion of Wallace's "Infinite Jest" book tour. This extended interview provides a rare glimpse into Wallace's thoughts on fame, writing, addiction, and the anxieties of contemporary American life.
Lipsky's account is structured as a chronological narrative, interspersed with his own reflections and commentary. The reader is invited to eavesdrop on the conversations between the two writers as they traverse the Midwest, visiting Wallace's home, teaching at Illinois State University, and attending various promotional events. The dialogue is raw and unfiltered, capturing Wallace's distinctive voice—intellectual, self-deprecating, and deeply perceptive.
The book delves into Wallace's creative process, his struggles with self-doubt, and his complex relationship with fame. Wallace candidly discusses his past battles with addiction and depression, offering insights into the personal experiences that shaped his writing. He also expresses his concerns about the corrosive effects of entertainment and the challenges of maintaining authenticity in a media-saturated culture.
Beyond Wallace's introspective musings, "Although Of Course You End Up Becoming Yourself" also portrays his everyday life—his interactions with his dogs, his fondness for popular culture, and his dedication to his students. Lipsky's observations reveal Wallace as a multifaceted individual, both brilliant and vulnerable. The book provides a vivid snapshot of a writer grappling with profound questions while navigating the mundane realities of daily existence. The relationship between Lipsky and Wallace also changes, as Lipsky begins to see the genius that everyone else sees, and to respect Wallace as a person.
Ultimately, "Although Of Course You End Up Becoming Yourself" is a compelling portrait of a literary iconoclast. It offers a nuanced understanding of David Foster Wallace's intellectual and emotional landscape, inviting readers to contemplate the complexities of creativity, fame, and the human condition. It is a must-read for anyone interested in Wallace's work and the broader themes he explored in his writing.