EconTalk

Reading, Writing, and Fighting (with Mark Helprin)

23 snips
Jul 8, 2024
Mark Helprin, a renowned novelist celebrated for works like Winter's Tale, dives into the transformative experience of war and the bonds forged between soldiers. He shares insights from his military service that shaped his novel, The Oceans and the Stars, addressing themes of leadership and love amidst conflict. The conversation also navigates Israel's geopolitical challenges, the joy of the editing process, and reflections on American culture's struggles with resilience. Helprin's literary journey unveils the profound influence of classic literature on his storytelling.
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ANECDOTE

Jamaican Reading Spree

  • Mark Helprin's father worked in intelligence, leading to a move to Jamaica during a Rastafarian rebellion.
  • There, a young Helprin read the entire local library, immersing himself in Irish literature.
ANECDOTE

Italian Literature

  • Influenced by a classmate's father, Helprin delved into Italian literature.
  • He even took a Dante course at Harvard as a freshman.
ADVICE

Thorough Reading

  • Read non-fiction thoroughly, checking facts and ensuring consistency.
  • Consider the logic and continuity of arguments presented.
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