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What’s Your Favorite Superpower?

George Saunders, one of our great writers, has been making the rounds on a book tour for his new novel, Lincoln in the Bardo. I’m a huge Saunders fan, not just because his writing is so special. I’m also moved by his generous heart. In a recent interview, he talked about radical tenderness and empathy as a super power. I really love the idea. I need to work on that.

Socks by Marc Johns

Discussion

13 comments for “What’s Your Favorite Superpower?”

  1. Karen says:

    I adore him and I feel like that adoration is growing, now more than ever. Last year we lost so much to the poison of toxic masculinity–he is a refreshing reminder that all is not lost (see also: Mike Mills). I started Lincoln in the Bardo last weekend and it is such a delight, I hope you enjoy it too.

    • wendy says:

      I hadn’t thought about Saunders as the perfect counterpoint to toxic masculinity. But that’s so true. I don’t know if it’s just a public persona, but he seems like such a good soul.

  2. Petra says:

    Wendy, on Saturday morning, as I was backing my car out of the driveway, I noticed a green bag hanging on my mailbox. I opened it up to find some candy and homemade cookies. Also enclosed were 2 notes saying “be kind to everyone” ,and “be nice” from the Kindness Kampaign. Radical tenderness indeed!

  3. Kathleen says:

    I think I saw Saunders talking about this book on Charlie Rose. I always appreciate efforts towards empathy. I myself tend to be a thoughtful type I suppose that can lead to empathy. It’s an underestimated attribute that can make a tough day easier.

    • wendy says:

      I find all of Saunders interviews so engaging. In addition to being a writer, he’s also a teacher. So he knows how to communicate ideas.

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