Fresh Air

Writer, Critic & Curator Hilton Als Looks For The Silences

24 snips
Apr 1, 2025
Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Hilton Als, renowned for his cultural critiques in The New Yorker, delves into the profound themes of silence and expression in art. He examines how unspoken words enrich personal relationships and influence creativity, drawing from figures like Richard Pryor. The conversation touches on his latest exhibition, which artfully showcases the visual interpretation of silence. Als also explores the impact of familial connections, particularly his relationship with his father, on identity and artistic development.
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INSIGHT

Language as a Weapon

  • Language is being used to annihilate, creating emotional and spiritual upset.
  • The destroyers of language don't understand the ramifications of their lies.
INSIGHT

The Power of Silence

  • Silence can convey deep intimacy, like unspoken understanding between friends.
  • Articulating this rarity without disturbing it with words is a challenge.
ADVICE

Finding Silence

  • Embrace silence by waking up early and listening to the natural world.
  • This helps absorb silence and live more presently than chatter allows.
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