BOSTON (AP) — Writer Gay Talese has drawn criticism for comments he made about women writers during an appearance at a conference at Boston University.
The Boston Globe reports the former journalist turned author struggled to answer a question Saturday about which female writers inspired him, mentioning Nora Ephron and Mary McCarthy before finally blurting out, "none."
Talese said women writers of his generation didn't like talking to strangers, which prevented them from taking on tough subjects.
Many audience members at the Power of Narrative Writing Conference seemed stunned by his comments. One yelled out, "Joan Didion!" Some took to social media to criticize him.
Talese reported for The New York Times during the 1950s and 60s and is known for his narrative nonfiction style.
Talese didn't immediately return messages from The Associated Press seeking comment.
Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Writer Gay Talese Draws Ire For Comments About Women Writers At Boston Conference
/ CBS Boston
BOSTON (AP) — Writer Gay Talese has drawn criticism for comments he made about women writers during an appearance at a conference at Boston University.
The Boston Globe reports the former journalist turned author struggled to answer a question Saturday about which female writers inspired him, mentioning Nora Ephron and Mary McCarthy before finally blurting out, "none."
Talese said women writers of his generation didn't like talking to strangers, which prevented them from taking on tough subjects.
Many audience members at the Power of Narrative Writing Conference seemed stunned by his comments. One yelled out, "Joan Didion!" Some took to social media to criticize him.
Talese reported for The New York Times during the 1950s and 60s and is known for his narrative nonfiction style.
Talese didn't immediately return messages from The Associated Press seeking comment.
Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Featured Local Savings
CBS News Boston
Bellingham woman shares late husband's mental health journey, her role as caregiver: "We need to lose the stigma"
Record-setting heat in Boston weather forecast this week before chance of isolated severe storms
PSPCA investigating video of woman pouring bleach on food for stray cats
Woman killed after plunging into icy Pittsburgh river was driving drunk, police say
San Bernardino County woman "shocked" as urn ordered off Amazon comes with ashes inside
Georgia nonprofit supports women diagnosed with ovarian cancer
Laguna Beach bans pop-up tents and canopies on most areas of its beaches
Colorado congressional candidate Wanda James suing fellow CU Regents