James Dickey

Tales of the Unknown South

Trilogy of films about race and culture in the Deep South from the end of World War I to the civil rights protests of the 1960's. All three stories deal with fear and isolation, and the role of faith in the lives of those who venture alone into what is unknown around them.

Kudzu

Kudzu, or Pueraria Thunbergiana, is a vine threatening to take over large portions of the Southern landscape. Imported from Japan by the Departement of Agriculture in the 30's for erosion control, its spreading growth has become a problem of menacing proportions. Kudzu is an off-beat, witty, informative documentary about the vine that is devouring the South. Featuring the Kudzu Queen, the Kudzu rock band, a cast of real-life characters and an appearance by former President Jimmy Carter, it illustrates how Southern cultural traditions have quickly grown up around a botanical pest. The eminent American poet and novelist James Dickey ("Deliverance"), recites three stanzas of his poem, "Kudzu."

Deliverance

Intent on seeing the Cahulawassee River before it's turned into one huge lake, outdoor fanatic Lewis Medlock takes his friends on a river-rafting trip they'll never forget into the dangerous American back-country.

Lord, Let Me Die but Not Die Out

Follows contemporary American poet James Dickey on a three week lecture tour. Reveals the actual thoughts and feelings of the poet through his conversations and poetry readings. Later, he and fellow poet Robert Lowell discuss their dreams.