The celebrated British author Ken Follett, whose works have sold over 190 million copies worldwide, continues to identify as left-leaning, stating his core beliefs remain unchanged. In an interview with “Stern” magazine, the prolific storyteller, known for bestsellers such as “The Pillars of the Earth” and “The Third Twin”, emphasized that embracing a left-wing perspective doesn’t inherently imply naivete.
Follett addressed the apparent contradiction between his political stance and his affluent lifestyle, which includes owning a Rolls Royce and enjoying luxury. He asserted that individuals who abandon their convictions in pursuit of wealth have never truly held those beliefs seriously. Having become a millionaire at the age of 30, Follett indicated he adapted to his financial status early on and questioned the practical benefit of adopting a deliberately austere lifestyle.
His latest novel, “Stonehenge – The Cathedral of Time”, is set during the construction of the iconic prehistoric monument and largely fictional. Follett explained he based the narrative on probability, presenting a reimagining of the Neolithic period that incorporates unconventional elements, including a priestly caste comprised of women and normalized depictions of same-sex relationships.
“We’ve long assumed that a grave containing a sword automatically belongs to a man” Follett commented, referencing recent genetic testing that challenges this assumption. He expressed regret that English history often overlooks the potential for women to have held leadership roles in smaller communities.
Regarding the inclusion of same-sex relationships within his narrative, Follett noted that these depictions draw inspiration from historical precedents. He pointed to examples from ancient Greece and other early civilizations where such affections were viewed favorably. He emphatically stated that he doesn’t have a specific agenda regarding LGBTQ representation within his work.
