Books and Authors
Hanya Yanagihara
Jan 9, 2022
Hanya Yanagihara discusses her new book 'To Paradise', exploring its multi-dimensional narrative, themes of epidemics and climate change. The chapter dives into the concept of three separate Americas depicted in the book, mixed-race identity, microaggressions, and works by Julia Otsuka and Lucy Caldwell. Also explores upcoming releases and reissues of classic books.
27:49
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Quick takeaways
- In 'To Paradise', Hanya Yanagahara explores the changing nature of America and the timeless quality of human desires, highlighting the collective experience of living through history.
- Hanya Yanagahara's 'To Paradise' examines America's colonial relationship with Hawaii and prompts readers to reflect on different American pasts and cultural identities.
Deep dives
Structure and Themes of 'To Paradise' by Hanya Yanagahara
Hanya Yanagahara's novel 'To Paradise' spans 200 years of American history, with each section set in a different time period. The first section takes place in 1893 New York, similar to Edith Wharton's novels, but with the difference that gay marriage is legal and some states have seceded from the union. The second section is set in 1993 New York during the AIDS epidemic, as well as in Hawaii with a potential king. The final section takes place in 2093, depicting a world ravaged by climate change and epidemics. The novel explores themes of love, exploitation, power, and the unchanging nature of human desires.
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