George Saunders emphasizes the importance of being honest with oneself while revising stories and making positive adjustments to improve them.
Saunders encourages writers to listen to their stories' needs, even if it means making difficult decisions or letting go of cherished ideas.
Saunders highlights the significance of kindness in storytelling and emphasizes the challenges of incorporating it consistently in his stories and real life.
Deep dives
George Saunders discusses his new book and Story Club on Substack
George Saunders, a renowned writer and professor, talks about his latest book, 'A Swim in a Pond in the Rain,' which analyzes the work of Russian masters like Chekhov and Tolstoy. He also introduces his new endeavor, Story Club, a Substack newsletter where he plans to break down more short stories and engage with readers about writing and literature. Saunders shares insights about his revision process, emphasizing the importance of being honest with oneself while reading and making positive adjustments to improve the story. Additionally, he reflects on the significance of kindness in writing and real life, acknowledging the challenges of incorporating it in his stories. Lastly, Saunders touches on the idea of embracing openness and patience, recognizing that the process of writing is a continuous cycle that requires continuous effort and self-discovery.
Navigating the Challenges of Ending Creative Projects
Saunders discusses the difficulties of concluding creative projects, acknowledging the feelings of self-doubt and neuroticism that can arise. He emphasizes the importance of trusting the subconscious and the revision process when facing obstacles and recognizing that the biggest obstacles often lead to the greatest payoffs. Saunders encourages writers to listen to their stories' needs, even when it means making difficult decisions or letting go of cherished ideas. He suggests that the most powerful stories come from being open to possibilities and revising relentlessly.
Understanding the Meaning of Kindness in Writing and Life
Saunders explores the concept of kindness in literature and in life, recognizing its transformative power. He reflects on the importance of incorporating kindness in storytelling, seeking to strike a balance between sentimentalism and honesty. Saunders delves into the notion of being open to the world and understanding the scale of influence we have on others through our actions and words. He acknowledges the challenges of practicing kindness consistently, particularly during difficult times, but highlights its scientific and philosophical significance.
The Role of Reception and Response to Work
Saunders reflects on the reception and response to his work, acknowledging that it matters less to him now than it did in the past. He shares his experience of reading reviews as a way to learn and improve, recognizing the potential for valuable insights amid personal biases. Saunders also emphasizes the importance of finding and working with good editors who can offer valuable perspective and help refine his work. He discusses the shifting relationship between the writer and the audience, understanding that the ultimate goal is to serve the story and its intended impact.
Approaching Writing as a Journey and Embracing the Process
Saunders views writing as an ongoing journey, placing emphasis on the process rather than on reaching a final destination. He acknowledges that the creative process involves cycles of desire, doubt, execution, and reflection. Saunders notes the importance of staying engaged with all aspects of writing, including the initial inspiration, the challenges faced during the process, and the time spent revising and refining. He discusses the relationship between being open and patient, recognizing that growth and improvement come from embracing the challenges and uncertainties of the writing process.
”I really have so much affection for being alive. I really enjoy it. And yet, I’m a little negative minded in a lot of ways too, like I really think things tend to be fucked up. ... To get that on the page—to sufficiently praise the loveliness of the world without being a sap, and also lacerate the world for being so goddamn mean—to do those in the same story would be a great aspiration. And I haven’t gotten there yet.”
