A Point of View
Our Revels Now Are Ended
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.
10:26
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Quick takeaways
- Howard Jacobson emphasizes that the radio essay transcends traditional writing, embodying a vibrant, narrative quality that enriches our understanding of truth.
- The concept of 'essayism' reveals that embracing uncertainty and fragmented identities allows for a more authentic engagement with the complexities of human experience.
Deep dives
The Complexity of Writing Essays
Writing essays is depicted as both an exhilarating and challenging endeavor, marked by the constant search for compelling ideas. The author reflects on their experience of having to generate content weekly, emphasizing the pressure of submitting columns without the luxury of second chances. This urgent environment cultivates a unique relationship with the writing process, where ideas often need to be coaxed into existence or abandoned entirely. Through anecdotes, such as the humorous recollection of a maternal gesture involving toilet rolls, the author illustrates how essays transcend mere facts and can embody a vibrant, narrative quality that resembles storytelling.
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