Anna Funder

In this engaging conversation, Anna Funder, the author of Wifedom: Mrs Orwell’s Invisible Life, reveals the untold story of Eileen Orwell and her significant influence on George Orwell's work. They explore how Eileen co-wrote Animal Farm yet was overlooked in history. The discussion also touches on the CIA's manipulation of Orwell's legacy, the conflicting aspects of his life, and how Eileen’s sacrifices and literary contributions transformed his writing. Funder provocatively contrasts Orwell's literary genius with his patriarchal shortcomings.

In a lively discussion, Fintan O’Toole, an Irish Times columnist and expert on political identity, joins host Anna Funder, an acclaimed Australian author, to explore the state of democracy. They tackle the rise of tribalism and how it distorts political discourse, emphasizing the dangers of self-pity narratives that leaders exploit. O’Toole connects these themes to Ireland's experience with identity politics while advocating for empathy and inclusivity in the face of today’s political challenges. It's a thought-provoking conversation on resuscitating democracy.

Anna Funder, a bestselling author known for her works on power dynamics, discusses her latest book 'Wifedom,' which scrutinizes the often-overlooked contributions of George Orwell's wife, Eileen O'Shaughnessy. The conversation delves into Orwell's 'doublethink' and its connection to modern patriarchy, exposing the nuances of literary erasure. Funder emphasizes the importance of women's visibility and voices in history while tackling the complexities of cancel culture and societal expectations regarding gender roles. She advocates for systemic changes to rectify these disparities.

Join Anna Funder, an acclaimed author known for her works like Wifedom and Stasiland, and Sophie Cunningham, a writer and advocate for authors' rights, as they dive into the challenges faced by Australian literature in the digital age. They discuss how AI has appropriated writers' words without permission, questioning the future of creativity. With insights on the ethical implications of AI and the need for cultural protectionism, the conversation highlights the struggle for authenticity and the importance of safeguarding human storytelling.

Award-winning author Anna Funder reveals the untold story of George Orwell's wife, Eileen, showcasing her significant influence on his life and work. They discuss the complexities of marriage, women's unpaid labor, and the impact of personal relationships on literary creations. The podcast delves into the blurred lines between an artist's public persona and their private life, emphasizing the importance of recognizing women's contributions in history and literature.