Warren Ellis announces debut book Nina Simone’s Gum

20 May 2021, 16:12 | Written by Cerys Kenneally

(News)

(Warren Ellis)

Warren Ellis has announced the release of his debut book, Nina Simone’s Gum, which is, quite literally, a story about "a piece of chewing gum".

Nina Simone's Gum was announced on The Bad Seeds' socials earlier today (20 May), and will be Ellis' debut book.

According to Pitchfork, the book is about a piece of chewing gym that Ellis acquired back in 1999 when Nina Simone played Nick Cave's curated Meltdown festival. Ellis apparently snuck onstage and took the piece of chewed gum from her piano.

A couple of years ago Ellis had the piece of chewing gum casted in silver and gold for display as part of Cave’s Stranger Than Kindness exhibition.

The 208-page book, is, according to the description, "about how something so small can form beautiful connections between people. It is a story about the meaning we place on things, on experiences, and how they become imbued with spirituality. It is a celebration of artistic process, friendship, understanding and love."

‘Nina Simone’s Gum’ by Warren Ellis. The unexpected and inspiring story of a piece of chewing gum. Out 2 September in the UK and 19 October in the US.
Pre-order now: https://t.co/A8cmazJNXo

A limited edition of the book will be available to buy from publication. pic.twitter.com/8ves7NurJU
— Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds (@nickcave) May 20, 2021