Worklife with Adam Grant
The art of rough drafts with George Saunders
Oct 31, 2023
George Saunders, an award-winning author and creative writing teacher, shares his eclectic path from roofer to literary giant. He discusses the importance of rough drafts and feedback in honing one's craft. The conversation dives into how kindness fuels creativity and the significance of aligning personal values with professional endeavors. Saunders also reflects on the art of crafting compelling endings and the challenges posed by AI in storytelling, stressing the enduring power of the human touch in writing.
38:02
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Quick takeaways
- George Saunders emphasizes the value of kindness, its connection to empathy, and how small acts of kindness can make a significant impact.
- Saunders argues against banning books and encourages the development of robust reading habits to counteract fear and promote intellectual growth.
Deep dives
George Saunders' Journey to Becoming a Writer
George Saunders, an acclaimed writer known for his short stories and novels, reflects on his early career path, which included working various odd jobs before committing to writing. He shares his experience of stumbling into writing, seeking the accoutrements of a writing life, and finally realizing his passion for storytelling. Saunders discusses the importance of patience, persistence, and honing one's writing skills over time.
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