Novelist Michael Cunningham discusses writing during the pandemic, throwing away a novel, writing the middle of a novel, and getting the voice of children right.
The structure of Michael Cunningham's novel 'Day' allows him to address the impact of the pandemic without overwhelming the story.
Cunningham's writing style reflects a balance between precision and ambiguity, leaving elements open to interpretation for readers.
Deep dives
Main Idea 1
The novel 'Day' by Michael Cunningham follows one family, Isabel, Dan, their two children Nathan and Violet, and Isabel's brother Robbie, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The story is divided into three parts, each taking place on the same day a year apart: before, during, and after the pandemic. The novel explores the dynamics of the family, including Isabel and Dan's deteriorating marriage, Robbie's deep connection to both Isabel and Dan, and the impact of the pandemic on their lives and relationships.
Main Idea 2
The structure of the novel, dividing the story into three parts and focusing on the same day in different years, allows the author to address the challenge of incorporating the pandemic into the narrative without overwhelming the story. Cunningham wanted to convey the impact of the pandemic on the characters' lives without making the novel solely about the pandemic. He explores the ways in which their lives are altered, their relationships tested, and their desires for a bigger life and meaningful connections intensified.
Main Idea 3
Through the characters of Isabel, Dan, and Robbie, the novel delves into complex forms of love and desire that don't fit traditional romantic formulas. Robbie's love for Isabel and Dan, and their reciprocated love for him, add depth to their relationships and complicate the dynamics within the family. The novel explores the idea of longing for something more, something less usual, that aligns with each character's capacity to want, even in the midst of the pandemic and the challenges they face.
Main Idea 4
Cunningham's writing style reflects his influences, such as Virginia Woolf, displaying a balance between precision and ambiguity. He leaves certain elements open to interpretation, allowing readers to fill in the gaps and use their creativity. While rejection has been a part of his writing journey, Cunningham learned to persevere and not give up on his passion for writing. He finds solace in exploring the vibrant and diverse streets of New York City, drawing inspiration from the energy and unpredictability of life.
Michael Cunningham is a novelist, screenwriter, and educator. His novel The Hours received the PEN/Faulkner Award and the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1999. He has taught at Columbia University and Brooklyn College. He is currently a professor in the practice at Yale University. His new novel is called Day.
We talked about writing during the pandemic, throwing away a novel he wasn't happy with, the challenge of writing the middle of a novel, and getting the voice of children right.