Viet Thanh Nguyen

"All wars are fought twice, the first time on the battlefield, the second time in memory," writes Pulitzer Prize-winning author Viet Thanh Nguyen. This week on Throughline, we want to pause the news cycle to think about not just how war is experienced or consumed, but how it's remembered. A refugee from the Vietnam War, Nguyen calls himself a scholar of memory — someone who studies how we remember events of the past, both as people and as nations. As the war in Ukraine continues and conflicts around the globe displace millions, we speak with Nguyen about national memory, selective forgetting, and the refugee stories that might ultimately help us move forward.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Viet Thanh Nguyen, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, discusses his novel 'The Sympathizer' and its adaptation into an HBO series. He emphasizes the importance of incorporating Vietnamese perspectives into the narrative of the Vietnam War, often overlooked in Hollywood. Nguyen examines the moral complexities of iconic films like 'Apocalypse Now' and how they present a predominantly American viewpoint. Through satire and cultural commentary, he challenges these narratives and sheds light on the identity struggles faced by Vietnamese characters in film.

Viet Thanh Nguyen, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and USC professor, shares his journey as a refugee from Vietnam and the ongoing impact of the Vietnam War. He reflects on the trauma experienced by individuals and communities, emphasizing the resilience of the Vietnamese diaspora. Nguyen discusses lessons from the past, the cyclical nature of history, and the artistic legacy shaped by these experiences. His latest essay collection explores the role of artists in political discourse, shedding light on identity and cultural heritage.

Viet Thanh Nguyen, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and refugee from Vietnam, shares his powerful insights alongside Andre Dao, an award-winning writer. They discuss the emotional weight of memory and trauma within Vietnamese families. Topics include the challenges of recounting personal and familial histories, and how language shapes identity amidst displacement. They also explore the delicate balance between artistic expression and political activism while tracing Nguyen's journey through love, loss, and the enduring impact of war.

Viet Thanh Nguyen, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, explores the complex interplay of history and memory shaped by his immigrant experience. He discusses the contrasting narratives of the Vietnam War and the essential role of 'defiant storytellers' in reclaiming history. Nguyen shares insights on adapting his novel into a TV series, the challenge of maintaining authenticity in journalism, and the enduring influence of literature in a social media-dominated world. His thoughts illuminate the importance of diverse narratives for marginalized communities.

Viet Thanh Nguyen, the author of 'The Sympathizer' novel, discusses the process of adapting his book into a popular HBO TV series. They cover themes of espionage, immigrant stories, identity, and the challenges of transforming literary language into screen dialogue. The podcast also explores the complexities of blending violence and humor, meta commentary on Hollywood's portrayal of the Vietnam War, and the significance of diverse casting in the production.

Viet Thanh Nguyen, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of The Sympathizer, shares his unique perspective on the Vietnam War. He discusses his family's escape from South Vietnam and the challenges of cultural identity in America. Nguyen critiques Hollywood's portrayal of the war, emphasizing the need for authentic Vietnamese narratives. He reflects on family trauma, resilience, and his literary mission to redefine Vietnamese stories. Plus, hear about the restoration of the Beatles' documentary, showcasing camaraderie and creativity in their journey.

Viet Thanh Nguyen, Author of A Man of Two Faces: A Memoir, A History, A Memorial, discusses his personal memoir which expands into larger stories of refugeehood, colonization, and ideas about Vietnam and America. He reflects on his experiences as a refugee, the violence hidden behind the sunny façade of America, and the existential crisis of being both American and Vietnamese. Nguyen also explores the necessity of both forgetting and memory and delves into the political aspects of his book and the mistreatment of Vietnamese refugees in the United States.

Viet Thanh Nguyen, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and memory scholar, discusses how wars are remembered and its impact on identity. He explores the dual narratives of the Vietnam War, emphasizing the complexity of personal versus national memories. Nguyen sheds light on recent conflicts like Ukraine and Afghanistan, advocating for the acknowledgment of refugee stories and the need to confront historical injustices. His insights highlight the ongoing battle of memory, shaping our understanding of war's enduring effects and the resilience of those affected.

Filmmaker Lee Isaac Chung and author Viet Thanh Nguyen discuss career trajectories, making art for oneself, Hollywood stereotypes and the impact of the Vietnam War. They also touch on the artistry of Minari and the importance of every immigrant story being considered an epic.