Brené with Jason Reynolds on Masterpieces and Messes
Feb 16, 2022
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Join bestselling author Jason Reynolds as he shares his journey in young people's literature and his role as the National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature. He delves into his emotional book 'Ain’t Burned All the Bright,' highlighting creativity's connection with anxiety and the power of storytelling. The conversation touches on formative influences from educators and the importance of vulnerability during adolescence. Through personal anecdotes, Jason inspires listeners with themes of acceptance, connection, и the transformative power of literature.
Jason Reynolds illustrates the power of art to address hard truths, particularly highlighting its relevance during societal upheavals like the pandemic.
His upbringing, characterized by open dialogue with his mother, cultivated resilience and sensitivity, shaping his unique voice as a writer.
Reynolds discusses the importance of relationships in shaping empathy and awareness of social justice, influencing his commitment to marginalized voices.
Deep dives
The Power of Art and Literature
Art and literature have the power to reflect societal changes and personal emotions, as demonstrated in Jason Reynolds' latest book. The book, described as a unique blend of poetry and visual art, encompasses experiences from the last couple of years, particularly during the COVID pandemic and social injustices. Reynolds emphasizes the importance of addressing hard truths through creative expression, making his work a vehicle for both personal catharsis and communal understanding. This approach resonates with readers who find solace and connection in the art during challenging times.
Jason Reynolds' Upbringing
Jason Reynolds shares a profound account of his upbringing, highlighting the strong influence of his mother, who instilled values of self-expression and resilience. Growing up in a household characterized by open dialogue, he was encouraged to articulate his feelings and thoughts, especially regarding difficult topics. This progressive environment shaped his identity and empowered him to embrace his sensitivity rather than suppress it. Reynolds attributes his success as a writer to this nurturing foundation that allowed him to explore and understand complex emotions.
The Journey through School and Self-Discovery
Reynolds recounts his experiences in school as a gifted but small student, navigating the trials of bullying and the challenge of fitting in. He emphasizes the pivotal moments in middle school and high school when he began to embrace his identity and develop a sense of self-compassion. The conversations with influential teachers played a significant role in recognizing his writing potential, reinforcing the significance of educators who nurture creativity and critical thinking. This evolution marked a shift from seeking acceptance to celebrating his uniqueness as an artist.
The Influence of Relationships and Community
Reynolds discusses the profound impact of relationships, noting that they have shaped his understanding of empathy and social justice. His mother's openness about discussing various identities and experiences, along with his friendships, helped him cultivate a deeper sense of connection to others. He highlights how witnessing the struggles and triumphs of his peers informed his writing and made him acutely aware of the societal issues affecting marginalized communities. These interactions fuel his commitment to advocate for equity and understanding through literature.
The Importance of Vulnerability and Therapy
Emphasizing vulnerability, Reynolds underscores how personal struggles can fuel creativity and empathy in his work. His own experiences with anxiety and the therapeutic journey have equipped him to confront and articulate complex emotions in a relatable manner. By advocating for mental health awareness, he encourages others to seek help and confront their feelings, reinforcing the idea that vulnerability is not a weakness but a source of strength. This belief ties into a broader message of resilience and the necessity of sharing one's truth, which resonates throughout his writing.
In this episode, I’m talking with Jason Reynolds, #1 New York Times bestselling author of more than a dozen books for young people, about where he draws inspiration for his characters, his role as the National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature, and his latest book, Ain’t Burned All the Bright. I’m deeply inspired by Jason’s art and craft — I loved every minute of this conversation.