Toure Show

Zadie Smith–How to Be Free

18 snips
Mar 26, 2023
Zadie Smith, an award-winning novelist known for her works like 'White Teeth,' dives deep into her creative process and the balance between life and writing. She shares her thoughts on the emotional challenges of crafting narratives while managing personal responsibilities. The conversation also touches on the importance of authenticity in storytelling and the impact of cultural identity on art. Plus, Zadie reveals how comedy and hip-hop influence her work, showcasing the nuanced relationship between humor and serious social commentary.
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ADVICE

Reading over Writing

  • Prioritize reading over writing.
  • If you can't read, you get antsy, unlike writing.
ANECDOTE

Reading as Addiction

  • Zadie Smith carries multiple heavy books in her bag, even for short trips.
  • She views excessive reading as a sanctioned addiction, an escape from the present.
INSIGHT

Distraction vs. Greatness

  • Getting constantly distracted by new, exciting books is a common problem.
  • A truly great novel keeps you engrossed without wanting to switch to something else.
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