If you read The New York Trilogy, it seems to me that there's a lot in there which relates to what psychoanalyst Jacques Lacan was on about in his work on desire and language. So, what I wanted to know was, did Auster ever read any Lacan? Anyone know?
In 'The Red Notebook' Auster refers to Lacan in the interview section - I'm not sure which interview, but I can find out if you'd like. He mentions the 'Mirror Stage'. However, in another interview he did mention that he once tried to read Derrida but, "didn't understand a word of it".
I don't think he has any direct links, but Lacan writes a great deal about fathers and fatherhood - a topic close to Auster. I think it is quite sensible to link the two philosophies together - but maybe Auster is an unintentional referrent to Lacan, rather than a deliberate borrower of his ideas. Auster would possibly be an individual that Lacan would enjoy psychoanalysing.
Right. That Auster is influenced by psychoanalysis seems quite clear. That is himself has been in therapy is possible as well. That he has read Lacan AS WELL AS FREUD seems extremely likely. But
a) I dont think his work, in the state it is, whether it's intentional or not. is influenced more by Lacan than freud. (lacan having been more than influenced by freud this would explain that)
b) Lacan, nor Freud are philosophers whatsoever (despite the widespread vulgarisation). The purpose of their writing or psychoanalysis, is completely different. And while one will find overlaps in all and any disciplines, that's it.
c) Fiction, Auster's territory, has even less got anything to do with philosophy and the purpose of fiction has got nothing to do with philosophy either. That it necessarily invites you to self reflect, does not mean Auster needs you to share his views or wants to spread any truths, nor wants to cure you. It's about sharing emotions and style.
Now back to your point, yes I think it's very likely that Lacan and therefore Freud have influenced Auster. And in many ways, while it's certainly more pronounced in his work, well, which modern writer hasn't. (be it unconsciously)? :)