The Good Life: Andrew Leigh in Conversation
172. Robert Dessaix on Abracadabra
Jun 17, 2022
In this engaging conversation, Robert Dessaix, an esteemed Australian public intellectual and author, shares insights from his new book, ‘Abracadabra’. He discusses the impact of his adoptive father's influence on his identity and explores the significance of names. The challenges of learning languages like French and Russian highlight how language shapes our narratives. Dessaix also reflects on literature's role in understanding personal and geographical identities, alongside a nostalgic look at Enid Blyton's adventures, and the transformative power of love and friendship.
54:28
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Quick takeaways
- Choosing a name can symbolize personal identity and self-discovery, reflecting one's journey toward individuality and essence.
- The nurturing influence of an adoptive parent can significantly shape creativity and aspirations, transcending formal education and traditional backgrounds.
Deep dives
Exploring Identity through Names
Choosing one's name can be a significant marker of personal identity, as discussed in the dialogue about the speaker's adoption and name evolution. Originally born Trevor Royal de Say, the speaker opted to embrace the name Robert Desai, believing it more representative of his essence. This choice underscores the desire to reject commonness and embrace individuality, reflecting a broader theme of self-perception and reinvention. The conversation highlights how names carry weight in representing who we are and the journey of self-discovery that accompanies such transformations.
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