The New Statesman | UK politics and culture
Why fiction matters - Deborah Levy
Feb 17, 2025
In this insightful discussion, author Deborah Levy, known for her works Swimming Home and The Man Who Saw Everything, argues that novels are living entities that foster introspection. She elaborates on the transformative power of fiction, emphasizing its role in navigating the human condition and societal complexities. Levy also critiques the oversimplification of narratives and examines the evolving landscape of the publishing industry, highlighting new literary platforms and the emotional ties authors have with their stories.
46:13
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Quick takeaways
- Deborah Levy emphasizes that novels merge reality and abstraction, allowing readers to gain deeper insights into life and the human condition.
- The podcast highlights the importance of language in novels, as well-crafted words evoke emotions and foster a profound connection between writers and readers.
Deep dives
The Role of the Novel in Negotiating Reality
The podcast emphasizes the novel as a medium that allows writers to explore and negotiate with reality. Writers can create complex worlds that reflect real-life experiences while also intertwining elements of the surreal and abstract. This blending is essential as it helps readers traverse the gap between their personal experiences and broader themes presented in literature. The discussion showcases how this negotiation can lead to deeper insights about life and the human condition.
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