In June 2018 I interviewed Philip Lopate, who is probably the most famous living essayist in the world. On camera.* It was something I’d never done before, and to say I was nervous is an understatement. I shook hands with him the day before and heard him deliver his keynote for the ‘Taking ideas for Read More
On not straight-jacketing the essay form, creative failures, telling jokes etc.The renowned US essayist, Philip Lopate, interviewed by Paula Lyttle at the “Taking Ideas for a Walk” Essay conference for the University of Dundee Centre for Creative and Critical Cultures, Hospitalfield House, 19-20 June 2018.
Day One When I was informed that our very first essay conference was to take place two days before my graduation, I’ll admit I was dubious. Such anticipation, such enthusiasm, would surely exhaust itself and leave me slogging on stage with about as much energy as an old sloth, overwhelmed with ideas, questions and a Read More