Navigating Cultural Issues in Politics and Journalism

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The chapter explores the profound influence of cultural aspects like books, movies, and monuments on politics, discussing the strategic significance of cultural issues in shaping political perceptions. It touches on the theme of how writing constructs and deconstructs our understanding of different locations, emphasizing the necessity of diverse perspectives in journalism. The conversation also delves into the challenges of expressing controversial topics through writing, the allure and challenges of working in Hollywood, and reflections on mentorship and the changing landscape of the journalism industry.

Ta-Nehisi Coates is an author and journalist. His next book is The Message.

“I don’t think we have the luxury as journalists of avoiding things because people might say bad things about us. I don’t even think we have the luxury of avoiding things because we might get fired. I don’t think we have the luxury of avoiding them because somebody might cancel some sort of public speech that we have. I then have to ask you, what are you in it for? Like, why did you come here? Did you come here just to make a living? Because there are many other things where you could make more money.”

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