Mr. Mailer talked about his book The Spooky Art: Some Thoughts on Writing, published by Random House. He talked with author and critic Carol Muske-Dukes about writing, writers, and his own work. Mr. Mailer discussed the importance of literature and poetry in a democracy, the influence of Pablo Picasso on his work, and his hatred of bestsellers. He also gave his opinion of organized religion, movies, and author Tom Wolfe. Following the discussion, Mr. Mailer took questions from members of the audience.