72: Track Changes feat. Lisa Borst and Mark Krotov of n+1
Oct 5, 2024
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Lisa Borst and Mark Krotov, co-editors of n+1 literary magazine, celebrate its 20th anniversary while discussing the evolving landscape of political and cultural critique. They delve into the critical relationship between writers and editors, emphasizing how this bond shapes good writing. The duo reflects on the impact of the Iraq War and the Trump administration on discourse, advocating for long-form essays amid rapid news cycles. They also explore the complexities of personal narratives in memoirs and the nuanced challenges of editing and collaboration in the literary world.
Collaborative editing enhances the creative process by fostering strong relationships that help writers navigate challenges and improve their work.
The podcast emphasizes the complexities of addressing urgent political topics in a polarized environment, requiring a balance between timeliness and depth in writing.
Uncertainty in political writing is increasingly significant as writers grapple with ambiguous narratives, necessitating nuanced discussions for effective journalism.
Emotional dynamics in writer-editor relationships highlight the vulnerability of writers, underscoring the importance of constructive feedback and trust in collaborations.
Deep dives
The Dynamics of Collaborative Editing
Working collaboratively with editors enhances the creative process, as strong editorial relationships can help transcend challenges inherent in writing. The speakers discuss their long-standing partnerships and how they mutually support each other's writing through a detailed and constructive editing process. This dynamic allows for a greater depth of dialogue, enhancing the overall quality of the work produced. Both editors feel that understanding each other's writing styles and preferences facilitates a more productive exchange of ideas, leading to richer and more thoughtful pieces.
Navigating Political Complexity in Writing
The conversation highlights the challenge of addressing complex political topics, particularly in the context of the Trump era, where the rapid pace of events demands timely responses. Writers struggle with how best to frame their arguments as they navigate an increasingly polarized environment. There is tension between the need for urgency in reporting and the necessity of thorough analysis, which can sometimes lead to conflicting interpretations of events. Through careful editorial guidance, the goal is to strike a balance that reflects the complexity of the situation while remaining engaging to readers.
The Role of Uncertainty in Political Discourse
Uncertainty plays a significant role in shaping political narratives, as writers and editors grapple with how to respond to evolving situations. The discussion emphasizes the need to confront feelings of confusion and ambiguity that often accompany major political changes. Writers often feel pressure to provide clarity in their pieces, but the reality of political discourse means that nuanced discussions about uncertainty are increasingly necessary. This challenge invites a deeper examination of the relationship between certainty and uncertainty in political writing, ultimately fostering a more reflective approach to journalism.
The Emotional Dimensions of Editing
The emotional complexities involved in the writer-editor relationship underscore the vulnerability that writers experience when receiving feedback. This can create a power imbalance, as editors sometimes hold significant influence over the writer's perception of their work. Both speakers acknowledge their awareness of this emotional weight, aspiring to mitigate discomfort through clear communication and constructive feedback. They aim to create an environment where writers feel valued and understood, fostering trust and collaboration throughout the editing process.
The Evolution of N Plus One and Its Voice
N Plus One has evolved over the years, adapting its voice and direction in response to cultural shifts and political developments. The editors emphasize the importance of remaining attuned to the times and embracing new topics and styles of writing. They reflect on how the magazine's identity is shaped by the unique voices of its contributors and the evolving landscape of political discourse. This fluidity allows N Plus One to serve as a platform for diverse perspectives, highlighting the interconnectedness of cultural criticism and the political environment.
Challenging Traditional Notions of Erudition
The conversation explores how modern erudition expands beyond traditional academic boundaries, embracing varied fields of knowledge. The editors celebrate the inclusion of unconventional subjects, such as automotive culture, as valid topics for critical engagement. This broader definition of erudition reflects a commitment to inclusivity and a desire to challenge established hierarchies in cultural criticism. Such an approach encourages writers to bring their unique expertise into the fold, fostering a more dynamic and diverse intellectual community.
The Importance of Intentionality in Editing
Intentionality in the editing process serves as a cornerstone for producing meaningful and impactful writing. The editors strive to provide thoughtful, focused feedback that guides writers toward enhancing their work without stifling their creativity. They acknowledge the significance of specificity in editorial suggestions, countering vague critiques that can leave writers feeling lost or uncertain. By fostering a constructive and intentional editing environment, the team aims to cultivate writing that resonates with authenticity and depth.
Abby and Patrick welcome Lisa Borst and Mark Krotov of literary magazine n+1. The magazine is celebrating its twentieth anniversary this year and marking this milestone with the publication of The Intellectual Situation: The Best of n+1’s Second Decade. Lisa, Mark, Abby, and Patrick engage in a conversation that ranges from the history of the magazine to the legacy of the Iraq War to the early dysphorias of the Trump administration to the contemporary publishing landscape and more. But at heart, it’s a discussion of the psychodynamic dimensions of the relationships between writers and editors, editors and publishers, and outlets and their audiences. We talk about how good writing can help readers, writers, and editors process the world, and about how such writing emerges from a profoundly intersubjective relationship that unfolds via drafts, correspondences, revisions, and more than a little transference.
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