LEWISTON – An interview with horror novelist Stephen King will be broadcast at 8 and 10:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 2, on Maine PBS.

Sandy Phippen, host of “A Good Read,” conducts the in-depth discussion about King’s writing career and aspirations for his future. “Literature,” he said, “is supposed to be a sweaty and close-up thing. It’s sexy, but angry – all the basic emotions.”

King speaks candidly about his choice to leave horror and fantasy behind for the uncertainties of new writing endeavors.

“I’ve done all the major monsters that I ever really wanted to deal with. I’ve said a lot of what I have to say, (and) I see myself going back repeating theme formats and places I’ve been before.”

Despite his concerns, King remains faithful to the craft. “I can’t imagine giving up writing. It’s a blast.”

He has dabbled in most forms of writing, he said, because “it keeps you fresh.” He has started a project with singer/songwriter John Mellencamp, in which King will write the script, while Mellencamp creates the music. “It’s something I haven’t done before,” he said.

King, the 2003 recipient of the National Book Foundation Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters, also shares the challenges he’s had working with movie director Steven Spielberg, reveals character developments in his continuing Dark Tower series, and speaks of the struggles he has had penning his book on writing.

“Stephen King: A Good Read Special” will be rebroadcast on Maine PBS at 8 and 11 p.m. Aug. 6; 10 p.m. Aug. 9; 8:30 p.m. Aug. 13; 7:30 p.m. Aug. 14; and 10 a.m. Aug. 15.