Shows
The Book I HAD to WriteThe past is every bit as unpredictable as the future, with Abigail ThomasIn this converation with memoirist Abigail Thomas, we discuss the backstory of writing Safekeeping, and that now-classic memoir was initially turned down by all the editors the book was sent, except for one. We talk about how crafting a memoir-in-fragments like Safekeeping allows a writer to depict memories in a way a more conventional structure doesn’t permit. She talks about why writing what you don’t remember is as important as what you do; and the value of following what interests and obsesses you, even if it doesn't seem to go anywhere at first.Thoma...
2024-02-1429 min
The Book I HAD to WriteS1, Ep 2: A Masterclass in Writing and Living with Abigail ThomasPaul talks with the NYT-bestselling memoirist and teacher, Abigail Thomas. Her memoir, Safekeeping (2000), is a marvel of technical innovation, enviable humor, and just plain old heart. She’s clear-sighted about her own failings, as well as other people’s, but she never seems to judge anyone. In this episode Abigail Thomas shares the backstory of how she came to write Safekeeping, how the memoir was initially turned down by all the editors the book was sent, except for one. The interview is something of a masterclass on writing memoir as Thomas also talks about: How t...
2022-05-1729 min
The Book I HAD to WriteSeason 1 TrailerComing May 8, 2022, a new podcast where leading nonfiction authors talk about writing their most compelling books -- and why that journey matters to anyone who wants to publish. Season 1 guests include Abigail Thomas, Gayle Jessup White, Robert Glover, Allison K Williams & more.
2022-04-1801 min