In a retrospective piece for SPIN, William T. Vollmann, celebrated author and former contributor, recounts his unique and tumultuous tenure at the magazine. Beginning with his harrowing experience as the sole survivor of a landmine explosion in Bosnia, which claimed the lives of his comrades, Vollmann's narratives often defy traditional journalism rules, opting instead for an immersive, stream-of-consciousness approach. His recollections provide an unflinching view of not only war but of humanity at large, revealing deep emotional layers and complex interactions with his subjects.
Bob Guccione Jr., the founder of SPIN, praised Vollmann as the best writer the magazine ever published, highlighting his extensive, handwritten dispatches that sometimes exceeded 30,000 words. These dispatches posed a significant challenge for the editorial team of the era, which required a painstaking process of typing, editing, and formatting.
Vollmann’s reporting was characterized by a rejection of sanitized narratives. In his powerful account titled 'The Way Never Came Here,' he embeds the tragedy of his friends’ deaths into the broader narrative of the Bosnian conflict, showcasing the chaotic and tragic reality of war unconventionally.
Even after leaving SPIN, Vollmann continued to explore intense subjects through his acclaimed novels and essays, including his National Book Award-winning work, "Europe Central.” However, his post-SPIN life has seen personal hardships, such as battling colon cancer and facing the tragic loss of his daughter.
Through conversations with SPIN, Vollmann reflects not only on his journey as a journalist but on the evolving state of journalism itself. At a time when media has shifted significantly due to technological advancements, Vollmann laments the loss of in-depth, challenging journalism that characterized SPIN in its heyday. His insights serve both as a celebration and critique of the craft he dedicated his life to. For those interested in exploring more of his powerful storytelling, check out the full interview on SPIN’s website.