A Bit of Relief: Introducing 'Sugar Calling'

The COVID-19 pandemic serves as a catalyst for examining the role of writers in times of global uncertainty and collective anxiety. George Saunders, a renowned author and professor, emphasizes the necessity of maintaining an open, observant mindset rather than seeking immediate, comforting answers when faced with crises. He likens the human experience to living on the back of a "sleeping tiger" that occasionally wakes, requiring writers to bear witness to these shifts with love, humor, and sharp attention. By documenting private reactions and evolving emotions, writers preserve the reality of historical moments for future generations. The conversation highlights the importance of staying present and finding meaning in change, illustrated by the story of Anna Akhmatova, who continued to document the human struggle despite the overwhelming darkness of the Stalinist purges.