The quoted statement reflects a personal discovery made by an individual named Jonathan Evison when he was seventeen years old. He came across the works of John Fante, an American writer, and interestingly enough, his introduction to Fante did not come through Charles Bukowski—a well-known contemporary of Fante—but rather through William Saroyan, who had a friendship with Fante that included frequent drinking sessions.
Beyond its literal interpretation, this quote offers insights into the diverse ways in which literary figures can influence readers and writers. The mention of discovering John Fante through an unexpected source, like William Saroyan instead of Charles Bukowski, highlights how connections between authors can shape one's understanding and appreciation of literature. It also underscores the idea that exposure to lesser-known or unconventional sources can lead to significant discoveries in a reader’s literary journey.
Jonathan Evison is an American author known for his works such as "The Revised Fundamentals of Caregiving" and "West of Here." The quote reflects on his personal discovery process and the unexpected ways in which he encountered influential writers, underscoring the serendipitous nature of literary exploration.
