FT News Briefing FT Weekend: The stories we tell, with Elif Shafak
Mar 5, 2022
Elif Shafak, a renowned Turkish-British novelist and activist, engages in a thought-provoking discussion about the intricate ties between national identity and storytelling. She reflects on the generational pain from conflict and the challenges of expressing creativity in oppressive environments. The conversation emphasizes the significance of understanding cultural roots and confronting historical trauma. Additionally, Enuma Okoro shares her affection for New York City, while Tim Harford suggests a more relaxed approach to productivity amidst life's uncertainties.
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Episode notes
The Power of Words
- Elif Shafak emphasizes curiosity, not bravery, as her driving force in asking difficult questions.
- In cultures lacking free speech, words and stories hold even greater significance.
Fiction as a Bridge
- Elif Shafak uses fiction to facilitate nuanced conversations about complex issues.
- The Island of Missing Trees explores the challenge of telling stories about divided lands without resorting to nationalism.
Generational Trauma
- Elif Shafak discusses generational differences in processing trauma and memory.
- Younger generations often ask the most important questions about identity and ancestral stories.
