What, How & Why We're Reading
a16z crypto podcast
Formula One, optimization, and genre connections
Sonal and Robert discuss an F1 book as an engineering analogy and why F1 resurfaces on lists yearly.
with @smc90 @rhackett @stephbzinn @Tim_Org
In a now-annual tradition, the a16z crypto editorial team discuss themes (and picks) from a16z crypto's latest reading lists, as well as books we keep re-reading, childhood favorites, classics, adaptations on adaptations — in book and movie form! — and much more.
We cover:
- What genres are we reading now, how, and why?
- How is technology — from AI and ChatGPT to the internet and audio — changing reading?
- Why are certain themes in the zeitgeist right now?
- Is all non-fiction just fiction now (and should we lean into this for education)?
- Are the kids alright?
From irony, truth, and why context matters, to Machiavelli, Formula 1, and nautical non-fiction this episode has it all... check out our "what we're reading" lists, podcasts, and more here:
https://a16zcrypto.com/posts/tags/what-were-reading
Highlights
(0:00) Overview of the summer reading list
(0:33) The list goes beyond tech and business books
(2:02) Formula One, optimization, and recurring reading themes
(3:12) Favorite picks: ASML, semiconductors, and industrial history
(4:50) Memoirs, grief, and reading for emotional understanding
(6:40) Why nonfiction feels broken — and what replaces it
(8:20) Adventure, boats, and narrative nonfiction
(11:39) Letters, primary sources, and Renaissance writing
(17:30) Antimimetics, ideas that resist spreading, and fresh nonfiction
(19:00) Mark Twain, irony, influence, and unreliable narrators
(24:16) Podcasts/the internet as book discovery engines
(26:10) The internet replaces nonfiction?
(27:31) Anne of Green Gables and its effects
(30:21) The role of the author in fiction vs. nonfiction
(32:00) Historical fiction, context, and why it still matters
(38:12) Machiavelli and interpreting texts across time
(45:43) Gothic fiction, Dracula, and modern adaptations
(51:00) Film adaptations and creative ownership
(55:16) Audiobooks, narration, and reading styles
(1:00:54) Reading aloud, poetry, and rhythm
(1:06:44) Childhood books that shape worldview
(1:15:24) Young adult books worth revisiting
(1:18:29) Closing reflections and where to find the full list
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As always, none of the following should be taken as investment, business, legal, or tax advice. Please see a16z.com/disclosures for more important information, including a link to a list of our investments.
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