Stephen King
Image credit: Stephen King: Kevin Bennett/© 2002 Bangor Daily News: Used with Permission

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Stephen King

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But won't he miss it? The rush of seeing one of his novels released?

''Absolutely not. Would I miss that? What? I mean, I'm going to Detroit this time and sign books at a Wal-Mart. What a thrill! Are you kidding?''

Like the author in ''Misery,'' King admits that his relationship with his fans is sometimes overwhelming. And, naturally, because of the kinds of stories he writes, some of King's fans can border on Annie Wilkes-like devotion. ''It's like, did you ever see the movie 'The Day of the Locust'?'' he asks. ''That scene where they tear this guy apart? It's the American freak show: Tom Cruise, Bruce Springsteen, Stephen King, John Grisham, Bob Dylan -- we're all freaks. That's what we are. And people come to look at us.''

Of course, there's one name he left off that list. Another author whose fans trek to backwater New England to gawk at: J.D. Salinger. And perhaps he doesn't realize yet, but by calling it quits, Stephen King may only fuel the thing he wants to escape. In fact, it's so horrifically ironic that it seems like the perfect idea for his next book...should he ever decide to write one.

To read the complete story, including details about King's early career, his qualms with critics, and his defeat of a drug addiction, check out the Sept. 27, 2002, issue of Entertainment Weekly magazine.

Originally posted Sep 20, 2002 Published in issue #674 Sep 27, 2002 Order article reprints
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