Half the Picture Half the Picture

Alan Moore talks Long London, Watchmen, The Simpsons & why he walked away from comics (4K)

Sep 18, 2026 · 1h 42m

Summary

Alan Moore discusses his late-night writing process, the origins of his Long London series, and the blend of humor and horror in his work. He reflects on the philosophical tension between eternalism and free will, arguing that we must act as if we have choice despite a potentially predetermined universe. Moore also shares anecdotes about his worn-out keyboards and the real-life inspirations behind his characters, emphasizing the importance of artistic commitment and authenticity.

Topics discussed

Intro: Life as a genre and Simpsons appearance Welcome, subscription request, and Mandula Festo Uncle Julian, Reducer, and the infinite regress poster Daily routine and the psychic silence of 2 AM Writing under the influence of hashish The Panaceans, Bedford, and the fridge magnet quote Worn-out keyboards and the Museum of Fine Arts Youthful exuberance and the origin of Coffin Ida Genre, humor, and the hostage scene in Book 2 Researching Joe Meek's voice and the letter from Elaine Duke Historical accuracy and the grouting of fiction London history: Cable Street, heads in jars, and Swedenborg Planning process and leaving space for chance Free will, eternalism, and the predetermined universe Wittgenstein, narrative, and the illusion of time Nietzsche, magic, and living a good life The Simpsons, TV habits, and disassociating from comics Illuminations, the comics industry, and music career Mandula Festo's prescience and Brexit New advice, storytelling book, and art's duty
Listen ad-free on Castria