

Our Revels Now Are Ended
8 snips Mar 28, 2025
Howard Jacobson delves into the art of personal essay writing, revealing its balance of intimacy and humor. He discusses how radio essays capture the 'frolicsome spirit of truth,' urging listeners to cherish the shards of skepticism they offer. The conversation highlights the unique value of essays over novels, celebrating life's imperfections and the critical insights they provide amidst today's chaotic media landscape. Tune in for a thought-provoking exploration of why essays matter now more than ever.
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Initial Inspiration
- Howard Jacobson coveted the "A Point of View" slot after listening to Clive James.
- He bought a special notebook, rejecting the bulky free ones from literary festivals.
Notebooks and Style
- Jacobson preferred a notebook for initial ideas, not full essays.
- He compared his writing style to Dickens' Miss Peacher, favoring a less structured approach.
Broadcasting vs. Writing
- "A Point of View" differed from newspaper columns as it was broadcast and demanded attention.
- Jacobson felt the word "broadcast" held weight, comparing it to Churchill's wartime speeches.