Picture an American storyteller who spins tales of adventure, philosophy, and human struggle—meet Brian Phillips! Known for his bestselling essay collection Impossible Owls, Phillips blends meticulous research with a witty, introspective voice that captivates readers. From tracking tigers in India to musing on sci-fi in small-town America, his work explores the quest for meaning in a chaotic world.
Beyond the page, Phillips is a passionate advocate for individual liberties, using his platform to challenge norms and spark dialogue. Based in Los Angeles, he continues to craft narratives that resonate with dreamers and thinkers alike. Ready to dive into his unique world?
The Making of Brian Phillips
Brian Phillips grew up in central Pennsylvania, where a love for storytelling took root amid quiet landscapes. A former staff writer for Grantland and senior writer for MTV News, he honed his craft in the fast-paced world of digital journalism. His early blog, Run of Play, showcased his knack for blending sports with literary flair, earning a cult following. Influences like John Jeremiah Sullivan and David Foster Wallace shaped his digressive, insightful style, setting the stage for his leap into long-form essays.
Brian Phillips’s Unforgettable Stories
Phillips’s debut, Impossible Owls (2018), is a globe-trotting essay collection that reads like a series of miniature epics. From following the Iditarod sled-dog race in Alaska to exploring sumo wrestling in Japan, each piece weaves history, myth, and personal reflection. His essay “Sea of Crises” delves into Yukio Mishima’s suicide, blending cultural analysis with haunting prose. Another standout, “Man-Eaters,” tracks India’s tigers, revealing the tension between conservation and human survival.
His style is a masterclass in narrative nonfiction—witty, self-aware, and brimming with unexpected details. Whether dissecting the British royal family in “Once and Future Queen” or reflecting on 90s sci-fi in “In the Dark,” Phillips finds universal truths in the specific. His work, often compared to New Journalism giants, thrives on curiosity and a knack for making the mundane epic.
While Impossible Owls remains his flagship, Phillips contributes to The Ringer and outlets like The New Yorker, keeping his voice fresh and relevant. His essays, featured in Best American Sports Writing and Best American Magazine Writing, showcase his versatility and staying power.
Why Brian Phillips Matters
Brian Phillips has redefined narrative nonfiction for the digital age, blending exhaustive research with a soulful, intrepid spirit. His work resonates with readers seeking depth in a world of hot takes, offering a lens on humanity’s search for connection and meaning. As an advocate for individual liberties, he challenges readers to question societal norms, making his essays not just stories but calls to think critically.
His influence extends to young writers, who see his work as a blueprint for ambitious, long-form journalism. By turning quirky subcultures into profound narratives, Phillips proves that every corner of the world holds a story worth telling. His legacy is one of curiosity, vulnerability, and a relentless drive to uncover hidden truths.
- Born: Central Pennsylvania
- Key Work: Impossible Owls (2018)
- Notable Awards: Semi-finalist for the PEN/Diamonstein-Spielvogel Award for the Art of the Essay
- Current Residence: Los Angeles
Snag Impossible Owls and dive into Brian Phillips’s witty, world-spanning adventures! His essays will leave you laughing, thinking, and itching to explore the world through his curious lens.