The Colin McEnroe Show Who are epigraphs for?
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Dec 17, 2024 Tajja Isen, an editor and voice actor known for her work with The Walrus, joins writing coach Courtney Maum, author of several books including a memoir about horses, and film critic David Edelstein. They dive into the art of epigraphs in literature, discussing their significance in setting context and enhancing narratives. The trio debates their proper use, the complexities of permissions, and how epigraphs can impact storytelling in both books and films. Insightful examples from cinema, including 'Lady Bird,' highlight the different effects quotes can have on viewers.
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Zoshchenko's Impact
- Colin McEnroe shares how Thomas McGuane's epigraph, by Mikhail Zoshchenko, resonated with him more than the book itself.
- The quote, "Man is excellently made and eagerly lives the kind of life that is being lived," made a lasting impact.
Epigraphs and the Reader-Writer Relationship
- Tajja Isen discusses how epigraphs reveal the complexities of book creation.
- They highlight the reader-writer relationship and authorial control over the reading experience.
Permissions and Costs
- Courtney Maum advises first-time authors to be aware of copyright permissions and potential costs for epigraphs.
- She highlights the lack of guidance on this in the publishing process.