In this part 2 of their conversation, the Surgeon General explores Dr. Abraham Verghese's craft as a writer -- what is his creative process? And what is the relationship between his writing and his work in medicine? The episode closes with Dr. Verghese sharing one of his favorite poems.

(02:56) How does Dr. Verghese deal with moments of fear and uncertainty that arise in practicing medicine?

(04:42) How has Dr. Murthy dealt with uncertainties in practicing medicine?

(08:19) How did Dr. Verghese’s unusual medical training shape who he is as a physician?

(15:18) What gave Dr. Verghese the courage to try writing?

(20:20) What is Dr. Verghese’s creative process for writing?

(22:19) What was it like for Dr. Murthy to write a book?

(26:41) How does Dr. Verghese deal with time pressure and deadlines when writing?

(30:15) Does Dr. Verghese experience writer’s block?

(33:36) A poetic moment with Dr. Verghese

We’d love to hear from you! Send us a note at housecalls@hhs.gov with your feedback & ideas. For more episodes, visit www.surgeongeneral.gov/housecalls.

Dr. Abraham Verghese, Physician and Writer

Instagram: @abraham.verghese.official

X: @abe_verghese

About Dr. Abraham Verghese

Dr. Abraham Verghese is a renowned physician, author, and educator, currently serving as the Linda R. Meier and Joan F. Lane Provostial Professor and Vice Chair in the Department of Medicine at the Stanford School of Medicine. He leads the PRESENCE center at Stanford. Dr. Verghese's work sits at the intersections of medical practice, humanism, and narrative, setting a higher bar for patient-centered care. In addition to two memoirs, he is the author of the two acclaimed and bestselling novels, “Cutting for Stone” and “The Covenant of Water.” In 2016, President Obama awarded him the National Humanities Medal; he is also the recipient of numerous honorary degrees. He is an elected member of the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy as well as the American Association of Arts & Sciences. His dedication to patient care and his promotion of bedside medicine creates a meaningful dialogue in the medical field.

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