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Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso
The Vision of Novelist Zadie Smith (‘The Fraud’)
Aug 4, 2024
Zadie Smith, a celebrated author known for her sharp insights and historical narratives, is joined by Taffy Brodesser-Akner, a masterful storyteller. They dive into Smith's latest novel, 'The Fraud,' exploring themes of historical authenticity and identity. Smith reflects on her London upbringing, the media frenzy after 'White Teeth,' and her evolving artistic vision. The discussion also touches on the nuanced politics in her writing, her desire for reinvention, and the challenges of merging personal narratives with broader societal issues.
01:08:29
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Quick takeaways
- Zadie Smith's novel 'The Fraud' intricately explores themes of authenticity and deception through the lens of a historical court case.
- Smith emphasizes the importance of recognizing both expropriation and resistance within the complex history between England and Jamaica.
Deep dives
Exploring Historical Fiction in 'The Fraud'
The podcast delves into Zadie Smith's new historical novel, 'The Fraud', which revolves around a real-life 19th-century court case involving a butcher who falsely claimed to be a missing aristocrat. Set against the backdrop of Victorian England, the story intricately weaves themes of authenticity and deception, ultimately serving as a commentary on society’s relationship with its past. Smith highlights how history can often be uncomfortable and is often sanitized in collective memory, prompting a desire for a more honest reflection. The discussion makes it clear that understanding history transcends racial boundaries, emphasizing that it is a universal human experience.
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Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode