Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, celebrated novelist behind *Half of a Yellow Sun* and *Americanah*, joins a lively discussion on the art of storytelling. She shares insights into the fine balance of humor and seriousness in fiction, especially amidst current societal challenges. The conversation touches on the role of social media in public discourse, the complexities of love and identity shaped by culture, and the transformative power of radical honesty in writing. Adichie also reflects on how fiction can convey deeper truths during times of mistrust.

Best-selling Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie gives the first of four 2022 Reith Lectures, discussing freedom of speech. She argues that it feels like freedom of speech is under attack. Cancel culture, arguments about “wokeness" and the assault on Salman Rushdie have produced a febrile atmosphere. Meanwhile autocrats and populists have undermined the very notion of an accepted fact-based truth which lives above politics. So how do we calibrate freedom in this context? If we have the freedom to offend, where do we draw the line? This lecture and question-and-answer session is recorded in London in front of an audience and presented by Anita Anand.The year's series was inspired by President Franklin D Roosevelt's four freedoms speech of 1941 and asks what this terrain means now? It features four different lecturers. In addition to Chimamanda, they are: Freedom of Worship by Rowan Williams Freedom from Want by Darren McGarvey Freedom from Fear by Fiona HillProducer: Jim Frank Sound Engineers: Rod Farquhar and Neil Churchill Production Coordinator: Brenda Brown Editor: Hugh Levinson

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, an award-winning Nigerian-American novelist, and John McWhorter, a New York Times columnist and linguist, engage in a thought-provoking discussion on language, race, and societal polarization. They address the chilling impact of cancel culture on free expression and creativity. Adichie critiques the condescending nature of wokeness towards Black individuals, while McWhorter emphasizes the need for authentic dialogue over mere linguistic changes. They explore how beliefs akin to religion complicate rational discourse, especially in discussions about race and social justice.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, renowned Nigerian author of acclaimed novels like “Half of a Yellow Sun” and “Americanah,” reads her poignant story “Chuka.” She delves into themes of self-discovery and connection amid the pandemic, sharing reflections on isolation, regret, and cultural expectations in relationships. Adichie navigates the complexities of love and personal aspirations versus societal pressures, all while inviting listeners to appreciate the nuances of gratitude and emotional burdens in past romances.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, an award-winning novelist known for her impactful views on feminism, dives deep into the intricacies of gender equality. She shares her personal journey of understanding feminism, sparked by childhood experiences. Adichie challenges entrenched gender inequalities, urging a shift in how society defines success for both men and women. She highlights the importance of empathy and collaboration in creating a fairer world where everyone, regardless of gender, can thrive.