Think Again - a Big Think Podcast

150. David Sedaris (humorist) – Sir David of the Spotless Roadways

Jun 2, 2018

David Sedaris, a beloved humorist known for his relatable storytelling, dives into the sometimes grim realities of life with a comedic twist. He discusses the societal pressures around negativity and shares personal anecdotes that highlight his knack for turning discomfort into humor. Sedaris reflects on childhood habits, the creative influence of classic literature, and the art of navigating sensitive topics in storytelling. He also humorously explores the fascinating anatomy of female spotted hyenas, bringing laughter and insight to unexpected subjects.

01:01:14

Episode guests

David Sedaris

AI Summary

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

David Sedaris highlights the social stigma of discussing negativity, stressing how cultural norms can inhibit authentic emotional expression.

Through his latest book 'Calypso', Sedaris illustrates the fusion of humor and tragedy, using comedy as a means to cope with personal loss.

His reflections on family dynamics reveal the complexities of supporting loved ones with mental illness while navigating personal boundaries.

Deep dives

Confronting Negativity in Society

Negativity often carries a social stigma, making it difficult for people to openly discuss uncomfortable truths such as death and illness. In certain cultures, like California, expressing negative emotions can lead to social ostracism, creating a pressure to maintain a positive facade. The discussion highlights how people may feel compelled to avoid these difficult topics in social settings despite their universal nature. This avoidance can disconnect individuals from their authentic experiences and emotions.

Intro

2min

The Compulsion of Counting Steps

2min

Childhood Comforts and Public Embarrassments

11min

The Influence of Literature and Personal Narratives

21min

Navigating Humor and Storytelling

15min

The Extraordinary Anatomy and Social Dynamics of Spotted Hyenas

6min

Embracing Nature: Stories of Wild Friendships

3min

Life is full of horrible things. I dare you to deny it. Things like death, sickness, and alcoholism. And did I mention death, which lies in wait for us all? But if you talk about these things at dinner parties, or at work, or to someone you have just met in line at the grocery store, you risk being branded a negative person. In some circles, such as the state of California, negativity is like leprosy. It can really mess up your social life.

This does not seem to trouble my guest today, who has spent much of his life turning horrible, true stories into festive comedy. like many people, I first heard David Sedaris’ unmistakable voice on public radio in the late 90s. My sister and I took a couple of his audio books on a road trip across America in her red Saturn with a bumper sticker on the back that read “Humanity is Trying”. Having Sedaris along as company somehow made the endless miles of Stuckeys’ and strip malls, and the weeping people at Elvis‘s grave side in Graceland a little less alien and terrifying. In his latest book, Calypso, David is doing his thing better than ever. It’s about what’s on his mind these days, from decluttering the English countryside, to feeding a surgically removed lump of fat to a snapping turtle, to a sister’s suicide.

Surprise conversation-starter clips in this episode:

Martin Amis on the “etiquette” of good writing

Lucy Cooke on the extraordinary genitalia of female spotted hyenas

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices