Understanding 'American Symphony' and Suleika Jaouad's Journey

Suleika Jaouad discusses her journey with leukemia and the creation of the documentary 'American Symphony' with filmmaker Matt Heineman. The film evolved as Suleika faced a leukemia relapse, highlighting the importance of trust and creative control. Suleika shares her experiences of creative growth during challenging times, including her 'Life, Interrupted' column and the 'Isolation Journals' project during COVID-19. She emphasizes the value of vulnerability and community in navigating life's challenges and finding creative expression.

What was the initial concept of the 'American Symphony' documentary?

• A story about Grammy nominations

• A documentary about Matt Heineman's filmmaking career

• A short process film following Jon's symphony composition

• A film about Suleika's cancer journey

How did Suleika and Jon manage creative control during the filming of 'American Symphony'?

• By taking full control of the project

• By stopping the filming process

• By surrendering to the process and trusting the filmmaker

• By hiring a new director

What new creative outlet did Suleika explore during her treatment?

• Writing poetry

• Playing the piano

• Painting with watercolors

• Sculpting

What inspired Suleika to start the 'Life, Interrupted' column?

• Her desire to become a foreign correspondent

• A challenge from a friend

• Her experiences and thoughts during her cancer treatment

• A suggestion from her doctor

What was the purpose of Suleika's road trip across the US?

• To visit family members

• To meet readers who wrote to her during her treatment

• To promote her book

• To find new job opportunities

What was the 'Isolation Journals' project about?

• A documentary film

• A series of paintings

• A collection of essays on solitude

• A newsletter encouraging creative expression during isolation

How did Suleika describe the impact of feeling emotions deeply?

• As a means to fully live and feel alive

• As a distraction from reality

• As a method to numb pain

• As a way to avoid discomfort

What did Suleika learn about relationships during her illness?

• That they are not important

• That they are unaffected by illness

• That they often become strained

• That they remain unchanged

What advice does Suleika give for starting journaling?

• Write only when inspired

• Use prompts to overcome the blank page

• Focus on perfect grammar

• Avoid writing about personal experiences

What does Suleika believe about creativity and limitations?

• Creativity is only possible without limitations

• Limitations should be ignored

• Limitations can inspire new forms of creativity

• Creativity is hindered by limitations