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
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.
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.
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!
Petra, this makes my heart literally expand. Wendy, George Saunders also rocks my heart.
I saw an image of Saunders holding a print made by Kurt Vonnegut, and it suddenly dawned on me that these 2 writers are natural bedfellows.
I would love to see that picture, Wendy. They really are two peas in a pod.
Here’s an article from GQ with the image. Scroll down for it. http://www.gq.com/story/george-saunders-lincoln-in-the-bardo-inspiration
THANK YOU.
This was needed, at the end of this savage week in our nation’s history in particular.
So, this was not a person you know who did the gifting?
No idea. The people I thought were responsible didn’t do it (but loved the idea!)
It’ll just remain a delightful mystery.
#payitforward (and I know you will!)
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.
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.