After losing her sons, Yiyun Li learned to ‘suffer better’
Summary
Pulitzer Prize-winning author E. Yun Lee discusses her new novel, *Music Against the Night*, which explores the lives of two 19th-century music prodigies. She reflects on the deaths of her two sons by suicide, her own past suicidal attempts, and how writing and piano practice help her navigate grief. Lee also shares insights from her childhood in China, including her year in the military and her mother’s abusive influence, emphasizing the importance of staying engaged with the world despite profound sadness.
Topics discussed
Introduction to Eileen Myles and her new novel
Why she wrote a historical novel after her sons' deaths
The prevalence of death in the late 18th century
Historical figures: John Field and Adelaide
Choosing music over words to express grief
Learning piano to mark time and endure
Recalling her sons' prodigious intelligence
Raising her sons as 'free-range chickens'
The contrasting personalities of her two sons
Growing up in China and her abusive mother
How her sons' deaths changed the novel's writing
Her own history of depression and suicide attempts
Respecting her sons' decisions to end their lives
Inappropriate reactions from strangers and friends
Answering her son's question about suffering
Advice for those contemplating suicide: patience
Growing up in China and serving in the military
Finding joy and distinguishing sadness from unhappiness
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