Oprah's Super Soul Super Soul Special: Lin-Manuel Miranda: Creativity and Compassion
Dec 17, 2025
In a heartfelt conversation, Lin-Manuel Miranda, the celebrated composer behind 'Hamilton' and 'In the Heights,' shares his creative journey and insights on legacy. He discusses how fatherhood has transformed his priorities and the importance of raising empathetic children. Lin-Manuel reflects on 'creative loneliness' during his childhood, which fueled his imagination, and explores the hip-hop essence in 'Hamilton.' He also updates on Puerto Rico’s recovery and plans to perform in his homeland, emphasizing the impact of art on education and culture.
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A Personal Song From Fatherhood
- Lin-Manuel Miranda describes becoming a father again and relates it to a moment in Hamilton he wrote without research.
- He says
Raise Children With Empathy First
- Teach children empathy as the primary gift and tool for life and art.
- Lin-Manuel Miranda urges parents to prioritize imagination and perspective-taking over just ambition.
Build From Musical Pieces Not A Masterplan
- Creative work often starts with fragments rather than a complete plan; write what sings to you first.
- Miranda wrote key songs then let them form the show's spine over years of research and revision.