//Q&A: Charles Dodd White

Q&A: Charles Dodd White

The Tennessee writer’s new novel addresses systemic racism in the South. He talked to BRO about the book, the importance of recharging outside, and his favorite spots in his hometown of Knoxville.

Charles Dodd White is having a moment. The Knoxville writer’s new novel, How Fire Runs, addresses white supremacy in East Tennessee and has been called, “a novel that transcends region to become raw commentary on this volatile moment in America.” His new essay collection, A Year Without Months, forthcoming next year, includes essays on Southern culture and politics that have generated both admiration and derision—surely the mark of a great writer doing important work.

We’ve been friends for years. And while I know Charles as a writer and thinker, I know him even better as an avid outdoorsman. We’ve paddled and backpacked all over the Southeast, and have probably spent as much time talking trails as we have