Life and Art from FT Weekend This American Life host Ira Glass on storytelling during Covid-19
Apr 2, 2020
Ira Glass, the genius behind 'This American Life,' dives into the art of storytelling during the pandemic. He shares insights on how small stories unveil broader societal tensions, emphasizing that everyday moments can elicit deep emotions. Ira reflects on the show's legacy and its evolution, revealing how diversifying the staff has enriched the narrative. He also touches on his unexpected fame on dating apps and predicts exciting future directions for audio fiction. It's a treasure trove for anyone curious about modern storytelling!
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Don't Be Guilted Into Productivity
- Resist pressure to be hyper-productive during the pandemic and avoid guilt over reduced output.
- Prioritize survival and mental health over ambitious self-improvement projects now.
Report Widely Felt Events Remotely
- Covering coronavirus remotely is feasible because its effects are ubiquitous and people can be reached by phone.
- Look for small, telling local moments to reveal larger societal shifts.
Small Incidents Reveal Big Tensions
- Ira told a dental hygienist's story about a woman caught stealing face masks and about a fight on the train over coughing.
- These small, local incidents revealed larger social tensions and black-market behavior during the outbreak.
