Join George Saunders, celebrated author of *Lincoln in the Bardo*, as he delves into the creative process intertwined with kindness and Buddhism. He shares insights on writing as a meditative practice and the emotional journey of drafting. The conversation touches on the troubling impact of social media on identity and communication, alongside reflections on political discourse and economic disparity. Saunders emphasizes the importance of vulnerability in creativity and the search for deeper understanding in our ordinary lives.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Meditation's Impact
George Saunders' wife's meditation practice led to noticeable positive changes in their relationship.
This sparked Saunders' interest in Buddhism and meditation.
insights INSIGHT
Mind's Potential
The mind's malleability offers potential for positive change, similar to physical fitness.
Saunders views this realization as exciting but acknowledges inconsistency in his meditation practice.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Focus on Kindness
Cultivate kindness as a central practice, as emphasized in Eastern traditions.
Exploring kindness leads to greater alertness, mindfulness, and understanding of one's actions.
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The Braindead Megaphone is George Saunders's first full-length essay collection, published in 2007. It includes essays that critique modern media and culture, drawing parallels with historical and literary figures like Vonnegut and Twain. The essays offer a nuanced view of contemporary society, encouraging readers to critically engage with the world around them.
Congratulations, by the way
George Saunders
Congratulations, by the way is an inspiring meditation on kindness, originating from George Saunders' popular commencement address at Syracuse University. The book encourages readers to prioritize kindness and empathy, arguing that these qualities are essential for a fulfilling life. Saunders shares personal anecdotes and insights to illustrate the transformative power of kindness and its impact on personal growth and relationships.
Lincoln in the Bardo
Yannick Garcia Porres
George Saunders
Javier Calvo Perales
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].
Tenth of December
George Saunders
Tenth of December is a collection of short stories by George Saunders, known for its honest, accessible, and moving narratives. The stories delve into contemporary issues such as class, sex, love, loss, and war, posing moral dilemmas that challenge readers' perspectives. The title story, 'Tenth of December,' is particularly noted for its poignant exploration of memory, loss, and redemption.
The Death of Ivan Ilych
Leo Tolstoy
The Death of Ivan Ilych, published in 1886, is a novella by Leo Tolstoy that delves into the existential crisis of its protagonist. Ivan Ilych, a judge who has lived a life conforming to societal norms and expectations, is diagnosed with a terminal illness. As his health deteriorates, he is forced to confront the emptiness and superficiality of his life. The novella explores themes of mortality, the search for meaning, and the nature of authentic living. Through Ivan's journey, Tolstoy poses critical questions about the purpose of life and the inevitability of death, prompting readers to reflect on their own existence and the values they uphold. Despite the pain and fear associated with his illness, Ivan ultimately finds a sense of peace and understanding in his final moments[2][3][5].
A Swim in a Pond in the Rain
George Saunders
Sam Harris speaks with George Saunders about his creative process. They discuss George’s involvement with Buddhism, the importance of kindness, psychedelics, writing as a practice, the work of Raymond Carver, the problem of social media, our current political moment, the role of fame in American culture, Wendell Berry, fiction as way of exploring good and evil, The Death of Ivan Ilyich, missed opportunities in ordinary life, what it means to be a more loving person, his article “The Incredible Buddha Boy,” the prison of reputation, Tolstoy, and other topics.
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Learning how to train your mind is the single greatest investment you can make in life. That’s why Sam Harris created the Waking Up app. From rational mindfulness practice to lessons on some of life’s most important topics, join Sam as he demystifies the practice of meditation and explores the theory behind it.
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