Lissa Soep, author of 'Other People’s Words: Friendship, Loss, and the Conversations that Never End,' discusses her journey from academia to journalism, emphasizing the influence of diverse voices. They explore the transformative power of words in grief, memory, and connection, delving into authorship disputes and the impact of storytelling on community.
The significance of co-producing relationships with others' words in shaping one's voice and identity.
The transformative power of uncovering hidden meanings in letters to understand emotions and poetry.
Deep dives
Lisa Soa's Book 'Other People's Words'
Lisa Soa, author of the book 'Other People's Words,' shares her experience of losing two close friends and delves into the complexities of friendship, loss, and the role of language in coping with grief.
Transition from Academic Path to Journalism
Lisa discusses her transition from pursuing a PhD in cultural studies and linguistic anthropology to embracing journalism after feeling a disconnect between academic writing and storytelling.
Impactful Discoveries in Christine's Correspondence
Christine, a friend experiencing cognitive decline, communicated her emotions through letters, revealing profound insights and poetry. Lisa shares the transformative effect of uncovering hidden meanings in Christine's correspondence.
Generative AI and Bactine's Theory on Language
Lisa explores the intersection of generative AI technology and Bactine's theories on language, highlighting how loopholes in language and subversive tactics can challenge AI language models and maintain the humanity of voices.
“I am so keenly aware of how much my own voice is a product of editing relationships and co-producing relationships with other people's words. … I will forever feel indebted to those then young people who are now writers and educators and therapists. … I feel like my voice is sort of a product of that time.”