NPR's Book of the Day
Richard Powers' new novel 'Playground' is filled with awe for the ocean
Sep 30, 2024
Richard Powers, an acclaimed author known for his environmental themes, discusses his latest novel 'Playground' with NPR correspondent Ari Shapiro. They dive into the awe-inspiring mysteries of the ocean, focusing on the island of Makatea in French Polynesia. Powers reveals how personal experiences, games, and a family gift about coral reefs shaped his narrative. The conversation also touches on the historical transformation of Makatea and the modern allure of 'sea-stating,' highlighting humanity's connection to both play and survival.
08:46
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Quick takeaways
- Richard Powers highlights how the ocean symbolizes comfort and interconnectedness, emphasizing its role as 99% of Earth's biosphere.
- The novel 'Playground' contrasts finite and infinite games, promoting resilience and curiosity as vital for navigating life's challenges.
Deep dives
The Depths of Exploration
The concept of the ocean as both a vast and largely inaccessible space is explored in the context of the new novel 'Playground.' Richard Powers discusses how the ocean signifies not fear but comfort in its enormity, allowing human beings to recognize their small place in the greater ecosystem. The discussion highlights the striking contrast between the limitations of human existence and the expansive, vibrant life that thrives beneath the surface. This perspective invites readers to reflect on their relationship with nature, illustrating that the planet’s vitality is upheld by the oceans, which constitute 99% of Earth’s biosphere.
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