"Trust Exercise" Author Susan Choi On Power Dynamics And Timely Fiction

The transcript discusses the complex relationship between teachers and students, particularly during adolescence. It explores the dynamics in a performing arts high school, where students are seen as 'proto adults' and the influence of a charismatic teacher. The conversation touches on power relationships and consent, especially in light of the Me Too movement. The author reflects on how national issues influence storytelling and writing, highlighting the shift in cultural narratives, such as immigration. The discussion concludes with the impact of these narratives on personal and fictional storytelling.

What is a key challenge in understanding adolescents according to the speaker?

• They are too similar to adults.

• They lack any intellectual abilities.

• They are neither children nor adults.

• They have too much experience.

What is a significant theme explored in the performing arts high school setting?

• The absence of any power dynamics.

• The focus on sports over arts.

• The influence of a charismatic teacher.

• The lack of creativity in students.

How did the Me Too movement influence the author's work?

• It had no impact on the narrative.

• It led to a change in the book's ending.

• It made the author stop writing.

• It caused the author to write a new book.

What does the author find challenging about writing timely fiction?

• It requires writing very quickly.

• It is not interesting to readers.

• It is too easy to write.

• It does not reflect current events.

What does the author reflect on regarding storytelling and national narratives?

• Storytelling shapes cultural and political narratives.

• Fictional stories are more important than national ones.

• National stories always align with personal views.

• Storytelling has no impact on culture.

How did the author feel about the national stories being told?

• They were irrelevant to the author's work.

• They were completely accurate.

• They were not reflective of the author's views.

• They were universally accepted.

What change did the author consider for their fictional world?

• Adding more characters.

• Ignoring national narratives.

• Exploring marginalized characters.

• Focusing solely on historical events.