Norman Mailer

Norman Mailer once wrote that before he was 17, he'd formed the desire to be a major writer. That wish certainly came true. One political campaign, two Pulitzer Prizes and an unprecedented level of controversy later, he became a literary grandee unlike any other. This interview originally aired on Oct. 8, 1991.

His books, including The Naked and the Dead, Armies of the Night and The Executioner's Song, have established him as one of America's most important authors. We'll talk about his career, and his work. His new book is The Spooky Art, to be released today, on his 80th birthday. This interview first aired October 8, 1991. reviews two new series: ABC’s “Dragnet,” and NBC’s “Kingpin.” Both premiere Sunday.

Our special week of writers begins with Norman Mailer. Mailer's books, like "The Naked and the Dead," "Armies of the Night," and "The Executioner's Song," have established him as one of America's most important authors. We'll talk about his career, and his work. (REBROADCAST FROM 10/08/91)

Norman Mailer's work combined sweeping cultural criticism, erudition and obscenity.

Mailer's 60-year career was full of depth and controversy. The novelist, who died Nov. 10, was often deliberately provocative, says book critic Maureen Corrigan.

And though he made perhaps his strongest impact as an essayist and journalist, Mailer wanted to be remembered as a novelist.

She reflects on the career of author Norman Mailer, who turns 80 today.

Commentator Maureen Corrigan reviews the reissue of Norman Mailer's autobiographical work, first published in 1959.