“I Trust Almost Anyone More Than Myself” | Better in Person
Summary
Stephen Dubner interviews Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist Jennifer Egan about her writing process, from *A Visit from the Goon Squad* to her new 1950s detective novel. Egan discusses her reliance on a writers' group for feedback, her strategy of working against previous stylistic choices, and her deep empathy for characters. She also shares personal reflections on her brother’s schizophrenia and her strong objections to AI in creative work.
Topics discussed
Introduction and Jennifer Egan's creative mindset
Aesthetic principles and rejecting experimental traps
Writing about technology and the future in Goon Squad
Early life adventures and overcoming fear
Writer's group dynamics and reading aloud
Processing feedback and trusting one's gut
The imagination and post-war America themes
Family history and grandfather's connection to Truman
Character depth and the effort of writing
Drafting process and self-compassion
Origin of Goon Squad and film adaptations
Winning the Pulitzer Prize and luck vs. merit
ChatGPT sponsorship segment
Brother's suicide and mental health awareness
Opposition to AI scraping and fiction's purpose
Empathy in writing and concluding thoughts
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