I don’t know if I like Irvine Welsh or not, but there are apparently many people who do. At any rate, I think this method of interviewing anyone is fantastic.

Is it true that you are big in Bulgaria? How are you received when you go there? Are there any other countries where you have a massive following?
Ben Stiles, by e-mail

I’ve had a great reception there, but then I have had everywhere I’ve been in Eastern Europe. There are countries where I’m a big airport novelist, while in others I have a cult underground following. And in some places it’s just, “Who the fuck are you?” I like the idea of being a mainstream star in one place, a rebel icon in another and a jakey somewhere else.