Join Booker Prize winner George Saunders, acclaimed for his masterful short stories, as he chats with critic John Self. They delve into the art of storytelling in his latest work, 'Liberation Day,' exploring the absurdities of human experience. Saunders shares his creative journey back to short stories after a decade, discussing the role of language and humor in narrative depth. They also reflect on the transformative nature of winning the Booker Prize and how it shapes both artistry and audience understanding, all while balancing authenticity with broader appeal.
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Embrace the Subconscious
Embrace the short story form as a way to let your subconscious guide your writing.
Allow it to take you to unexpected places and reveal hidden truths.
insights INSIGHT
Start Small, Discover Big
Start stories with minimal planning, focusing on an intriguing voice or element.
Let the narrative unfold organically, embracing confusion and discovery.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Language as Embodiment
Use language not just to describe, but to embody the subject matter.
Find the poetry in euphemisms and corporate jargon, revealing deeper truths.
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The novel is set in 1862 during the American Civil War and revolves around the death of Willie Lincoln, the 11-year-old son of President Abraham Lincoln. After Willie's death from typhoid fever, his spirit finds itself in a limbo known as the bardo, a concept borrowed from Tibetan Buddhism. Here, he encounters a diverse group of ghosts who are also trapped between the world of the living and the afterlife. The story delves into themes of grief, both personal and national, as Lincoln grapples with the loss of his son amidst the broader context of the Civil War. The novel is characterized by its unique narrative style, which includes a multitude of voices and historical quotes, and its exploration of the human experience of suffering and love[1][2][4].
Liberation Day
George Saunders
In 'Liberation Day', George Saunders presents a diverse collection of stories that delve into the complexities of human relationships, societal structures, and the dynamics of power. The titular story introduces a dystopian scenario where enslaved performers are controlled by an affluent owner, raising questions about autonomy and exploitation. Through these narratives, Saunders challenges readers to reflect on their roles within societal mechanisms of power.
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Described as one of the most important and blazingly original writers of his generation, American author George Saunders is a master of the short story. He joins us on the podcast with critic John Self to discuss the voices that make up his insightful, hilarious and sometimes disturbing stories and how his work cuts into the absurdist experience of being human.
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