Queen of Muses

The always extraordinary Patricia Clarkson on Sharp Objects, portraying difficult characters, and the correct way to make jambalaya

By Sam Kashner

Portrait by David Downton

“I grew up below sea level, so I just rise.” —Patricia Clarkson

“Have you ever had bourbon, ginger, and orange?” asks Patricia Clarkson in her husky purr of a voice, like a pearl dropped in honey. “Do you want to try it?”