Novelist Jonathan Lethem Likes to Be Surprised by His Own...

What this episode covers

This week, host Isaac Butler talks to novelist Jonathan Lethem about daily writing rituals, teaching writing, and the process behind Jonathan’s latest novel, The Arrest, which imagines a world where most advanced technology stops working. After the interview, Isaac and co-host June Thomas discuss the improvisational way that Jonathan plots out his novels. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Jonathan talks about how he managed to find time to write when he was a young aspiring novelist working full-time jobs that didn’t involve writing. He also talks about a recent piece of Zoom theater that he loved. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Share this episode

Similar Episodes

Bringing it all together.

Mar 31, 2026 ·54m

Why is the vendor role so contentious in the cyber ecosystem?

Mar 27, 2026 ·14m

But what do you really want?

Mar 24, 2026 ·42m

Strategic approaches to talent: A practical guide.

Mar 20, 2026 ·42m

Mid season reflection with Kim Jones.

Mar 17, 2026 ·41m

Is the role of the CISO adding to the confusion?

Mar 13, 2026 ·44m

Similar Podcasts

CISO Perspectives (public) N2K Networks This season on CISO Perspectives, host Kim Jones explores some of the challenges of leading through uncertainty. We explore the complexity of the changing nature of regulation and working with the federal government, the evolution of privacy and fraud, and how emerging technologies like AI and quantum computing are changing cyber. When you don’t know what questions to ask, you’re afraid to ask, or don’t know who to ask, CISO Perspectives provides the foundation for learning in this brave new world. Carnivores Don't Get Sunburn - Carnivore Diet Talks Carnivores Don't Get Sunburn - Carnivore Diet Talks Welcome to “Carnivores Don’t Get Sunburn,” where we have fun and explore the carnivore diet and its transformative power. Join us as we uncover real stories from individuals who have thrived on this diet, defying convention and embracing optimal health. Plus, stay tuned for our upcoming documentary featuring diverse carnivores overcoming health challenges. Learn more at www.carnivoredietdocumentary.com.Excitingly, we’re working on an upcoming documentary where we’ll feature carnivores from various walks of life, conquering diverse health challenges. Join us on this journey and learn more at www.carnivoredietdocumentary.com.Join us in uncovering the power of the carnivore diet. Prepare to be inspired, informed, and empowered to embrace optimal health and well-being.Welcome to “Carnivores Don’t Get Sunburn: Unveiling Real Stories of the Carnivore Diet.” Stay tuned for our upcoming documentary. Discover how this lifestyle can transform lives. Learn more at www.carnivoredietdocumentary.com Canine Fitness Fanatics Podcast Hannah Johnson Do you think your dog might benefit from a little extra fitness? Maybe you want to tighten those left turns in agility or tighten their box turn in flyball? Or maybe they are a bit clumsy and just need a little more body awareness? Welcome to the Canine Fitness Fanatics podcast! With your host Hannah Johnson join us as we talk dog fitness and other areas of canine health too! Our mission is to help condition dogs to reduce the risk of injury and increase longevity, whether that’s in sporting dogs, working dogs or pet dogs. All dogs can benefit from a little extra fitness! The Ultraspeaking Podcast Tristan de Montebello, Michael Gendler The Ultraspeaking Podcast explores modern-day solutions to greater confidence, skill, and ease when speaking at work. Each episode features the founders, Tristan and Michael, as they detail unconventional strategies to thrive under pressure and speak with less preparation. Working on hand-gestures and eye contact is OUTDATED advice. Writing a script or creating a structure is a TRAP.It’s time for a better way. Join the Ultraspeaking movement and you’ll never look back.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Working?

This episode is 46 minutes long.

When was this Working episode published?

This episode was published on January 17, 2021.

What is this episode about?

This week, host Isaac Butler talks to novelist Jonathan Lethem about daily writing rituals, teaching writing, and the process behind Jonathan’s latest novel, The Arrest, which imagines a world where most advanced technology stops working. After the...

Can I download this Working episode?

Yes, you can download this episode by clicking the download button on the episode player, or subscribe to the podcast in your preferred podcast app for automatic downloads.