Nabeel Qureshi: literature requires the fuller engagement of your soul.
Sep 17, 2024
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Nabeel Qureshi, a literary enthusiast and tech-savvy academic, dives deep into the transformative power of literature. He explores how serious literature influences life stages and the challenges of engaging non-readers. Qureshi discusses the intersection of technology and literature, stressing that online platforms can enhance literary appreciation. The conversation also touches on autofiction, Shakespeare's accessibility, and the impact of AI on storytelling. Along the way, listeners receive book recommendations and insights into the evolving landscape of literary criticism.
Nabeel Qureshi discusses how literature can provide profound personal insights and enhance our understanding of the world around us.
The podcast explores how modern technology, particularly the internet, can serve as a valuable platform for rediscovering serious literature.
Qureshi reflects on how age influences literary engagement, altering emotional responses and interpretations of texts throughout different life stages.
Deep dives
Exploring Literary Influences
The conversation begins with Nabil Qureshi discussing his journey into the world of economics and literature. Following his graduation in English during the tumultuous year of 2008, he sought to understand global events by delving into various think tanks and economic blogs. A pivotal moment arrived when he discovered Tyler Cowen's 'Marginal Revolution' blog through a quirky tweet. This blog became a significant resource for Qureshi, who appreciated its unique blend of economics and broader cultural discussions.
The Value of Serious Literature
The dialogue shifts to the importance of reading serious literature, with an emphasis on how it enhances one's understanding of the world. Readers who previously shied away from literary works often find themselves attracted to deeper texts later in life, illustrating the potential for growth in reading habits. Nabil expresses optimism about the transformative power of literature, even for individuals who may have missed out on it during their formative years. The discussion also highlights how engaging with significant works can lead to profound personal insights and a rich cultural understanding.
The Intersection of Technology and Literature
The podcast addresses whether modern technology hinders or enhances the appreciation of serious literature. While there is skepticism regarding the impact of the internet on reading habits, it is argued that the digital age can serve as a valuable platform to rediscover literary works. The conversation suggests that the internet provides access to texts and discussions that can reignite interest in literature. Consequently, it is posited that rather than detracting from literature, the internet has the potential to foster a more engaged and inquisitive readership.
Aesthetic Engagement with Shakespeare
A thought-provoking discussion emerges around Shakespeare's relevance in contemporary culture, particularly among tech-savvy individuals. The conversation delves into the utilitarian perception of literature, questioning whether Shakespeare can offer practical insights for modern readers. While some argue that Shakespeare's works provide deeper emotional and philosophical reflections, there is a recognition that they may not resonate with those focused solely on career advancement. Ultimately, the dialogue suggests that a richer understanding of literature can equip individuals with valuable life lessons that extend beyond academic success.
The Influence of Age on Literary Appreciation
A reflective segment highlights how age affects literary engagement and emotional responses to texts. As individuals grow older, their reading preferences and the impact of literature may evolve significantly, often resulting in a more nuanced appreciation of themes and characters. The podcast illustrates how different life stages can lead to varied interpretations of literature, with younger readers experiencing works like 'Catcher in the Rye' with a distinct perspective. This recognition of context underlines the idea that certain texts, while impactful at a younger age, may resonate differently as one navigates the complexities of adulthood.
There’s a profile about me and Second Act in the New Zealand Listener. It’s very good so if you’re in NZ and have a subscription (it’s paywalled) do take a look. I chuckled at this line: “Speaking by Zoom from London, Oliver is a serious fellow, and has the manner of someone older.” This was nice too: “He also has a strong sense of his own mortality. For someone still in their 30s, this seems surprising until he talks about his penchant for poetry… Our interview is peppered with quotes from poems.” My thanks to Sarah Catherallfor a lovely write up!
When I asked to interview Nabeel, he asked to interview me. How could I refuse? Nabeel is a well-read literary enthusiast so of course we had a good time covering many topics such as favourite books, autofiction, Harold Bloom, modernism, subjectivity culture post-1945, Anthony Powell, The Englishness of Robert Frost, modern novels, George Eliot, viewquakes, novels about older people, and being self-authorised. And then I turned it round and ask Nabeel questions about tech reading lists, entertainment and learning, the utilitarian value of Shakespeare, and whether AI will be good for literature. He’s a visiting fellow in AI at the Mercatus Centre, with a background in tech companies, so his answers are well-considered and interesting. And I got a book recommendation!
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