This classic novel by Robert M. Pirsig is a personal and philosophical odyssey that delves into the author's search for meaning. The narrative follows a father and his son on a summer motorcycle trip from the Midwest to California, intertwining a travelogue with deep philosophical discussions. The book explores the concept of 'quality' and how it informs a well-lived life, reconciling science, religion, and humanism. It also touches on the author's own struggles with his past and his philosophical quest, making it a touching and transcendent exploration of human experience and endeavor.
The Magus is a literary thriller that follows Nicholas Urfe, an Oxford-educated Englishman, as he takes a teaching job on the Greek island of Phraxos. There, he encounters Maurice Conchis, a mysterious and wealthy recluse who engages him in a complex and mind-bending game that blurs the lines between reality and illusion. The novel explores themes of psychological manipulation, existential crises, and the human condition, presenting a rich tapestry of metafiction and philosophical depth. The story is marked by its intricate plot, erotic tension, and the ambiguity of its ending, leaving readers to grapple with the implications of Nicholas's experiences[1][3][5].
Couples is a 1968 novel by John Updike that explores the lives of ten married couples in the small Massachusetts town of Tarbox. The novel delves into themes of infidelity, social change, and the impact of the sexual revolution on American society. It is known for its frank portrayal of sex and relationships, set against the backdrop of significant historical events like the Kennedy assassination.
Destroyer of Worlds, the sequel to Lovecraft Country, continues the story of Atticus Black and his companions. The novel expands upon the themes of racism, identity, and the supernatural, exploring new dimensions of the cosmic horror genre. The narrative delves deeper into the complex history of the Black community in America and its intersection with the occult. The book maintains the thrilling pace and suspenseful atmosphere of its predecessor, offering a captivating read for fans of the original. It's a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of history, identity, and the power of storytelling.
Me Before You tells the story of Louisa Clark, a young woman who takes a job caring for Will Traynor, a wealthy man left quadriplegic after an accident. As they grow closer, Lou learns of Will's plan to end his life and sets out to change his mind, leading them both on a journey of self-discovery and love. The novel explores themes of life, love, and the complexities of human choice.
Set during the Napoleonic Wars, 'War and Peace' follows the lives of several Russian aristocratic families, including the Bezukhovs, the Rostovs, and the Bolkonskys. The novel spans from 1805 to 1820 and is known for its realistic detail and psychological analysis. It explores the impact of Napoleon's invasion of Russia on the characters and society, delving into themes of love, family, war, and personal growth. The novel includes historical events such as the Battle of Austerlitz, the Treaties of Tilsit, and the French invasion of Russia, intertwining historical and fictional elements[3][4][5].
Rachel and Simon speak to the novelist and journalist Diana Evans. Born and brought up in London and Lagos, Diana started her career as a journalist. She has written for publications including the Guardian, Harper’s Bazaar, the New York Review of Books, Time and Vogue. After she completed an MA in Creative Writing at the University of East Anglia, Diana published her debut novel, “26a”, in 2005; the book won the inaugural Orange Award for New Writers and was shortlisted for the Whitbread First Novel and the Commonwealth Best First Book. “The Wonder”, which drew on Diana’s own experience as a dancer, followed in 2009. Diana’s third novel, “Ordinary People” (2018), was widely feted: it won the South Bank Sky Arts Award for Literature and was shortlisted for the Women’s Prize for Fiction, the Rathbones Folio Prize and the Orwell Prize for Political Fiction. Her fourth book, “A House for Alice” (2023), was also shortlisted for the Orwell Prize for Political Fiction. We spoke to Diana about “I Want to Talk to You and Other Conversations”, a collection of her journalism, publishing “26a” and moving between fiction and non-fiction.
We’ve made another update for those who support the podcast on the crowdfunding site Patreon. We’ve added 40 pages of new material to the package of successful article pitches that goes to anyone who supports the show with $5 per month or more, including new pitches to the New York Times, the Washington Post and the BBC. The whole compendium now runs to a whopping 160 pages. For Patreons who contribute $10/month we’re now also releasing bonus mini-episodes. Thanks to our sponsor, Scrivener, the first ten new signs-ups at $10/month will receive a lifelong license to Scrivener worth £55/$59.99 (nine are left). This specialist word-processing software helps you organise long writing projects such as novels, academic papers and even scripts. Other Patreon rewards include signed copies of the podcast book and the opportunity to take part in a monthly call with Simon and Rachel.
A new edition of “Always Take Notes: Advice From Some Of The World’s Greatest Writers” - a book drawing on our podcast interviews - is available now. The updated version now includes insights from over 100 past guests on the podcast, with new contributions from Harlan Coben, Victoria Hislop, Lee Child, Megan Nolan, Jhumpa Lahiri, Philippa Gregory, Jo Nesbø, Paul Theroux, Hisham Matar and Bettany Hughes. You can order it via Amazon or Waterstones.
You can find us online at alwaystakenotes.com, on Twitter @takenotesalways and on Instagram @alwaystakenotes. Always Take Notes is presented by Simon Akam and Rachel Lloyd, and produced by Artemis Irvine. Our music is by Jessica Dannheisser and our logo was designed by James Edgar.
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