Ep 15. William S. Burroughs: A Man Within

William S. Burroughs: A Man Within is a documentary film that provides a thought-provoking look into the life and mind of one of America's most controversial and influential writers. Directed by Yony Leyser, the film explores the complex personality of William S. Burroughs, an iconic figure of the Beat Generation, who is known for his transgressive, experimental literature that challenged the norms of American culture.

The film delves into the personal and private life of Burroughs, tracing his journey from his privileged upbringing in St. Louis, Missouri to his creative years in New York City. Through interviews with family members, friends, fellow writers, and admirers, the film offers an intimate portrayal of Burroughs' life and work.

The film highlights some of Burroughs' major literary contributions, such as Naked Lunch and Junkie, which are still widely read today. Through powerful archival footage, the audience gets a glimpse into the mind of a writer who constantly challenged the boundaries of conventional literature. The film also explores Burroughs' unique style of writing, known for its nonlinear structure and cosmic undertones.

The documentary also delves into the less glamorous aspects of Burroughs' life. His struggles with drug addiction, personal tragedy and his sexual orientation are all explored in the film. Leyser also takes a deeper look into Burroughs' relationship with his son, William Burroughs Jr., and how it was marked by mutual frustration and disappointment.

Aside from interviews, the film also showcases excerpts from Burroughs' film appearances and audio recordings of him reading his own work. His collaborations with other artists, like musician Tom Waits, also offer insights into his creative process. The film provides a rich tapestry of Burroughs' life and legacy, exposing the complexity of a man who was an iconoclast and a rebel.

The documentary is narrated by actor Peter Weller who played the lead role in David Cronenberg's adaptation of Naked Lunch. Weller's narration offers a sense of continuity between the film and Burroughs' work. His commentary is interwoven with interviews with literary figures like Allen Ginsberg, John Waters and Patti Smith, who discuss Burroughs' influence on American literature.

Overall, William S. Burroughs: A Man Within is a poignant and engaging documentary that offers a fresh perspective on the life and work of a literary giant. The film provides a unique portrait of a man whose influence transcended literature and whose ideas continue to inspire generations of artists, writers and thinkers.