Kazuo Ishiguro gives a press conference after being announced as the winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature

The speaker discusses their writing style, influenced by Japanese aesthetics, preferring a calm surface with strong emotions beneath. They reflect on the improbability of winning a Nobel Prize, comparing it to being featured on Desert Island Discs, a significant achievement for many British people. The speaker clarifies that Nobel Prizes are awarded for a body of work rather than a single piece.

What stylistic approach does the speaker prefer in their writing?

• A direct and straightforward style

• A humorous tone with serious undertones

• A calm surface with strong emotions underneath

• A chaotic surface with calm emotions

What does the speaker think about the likelihood of winning a Nobel Prize?

• It is guaranteed with hard work

• It is something only a crazy person would expect

• It requires a lot of luck and connections

• It is a common expectation for writers

What is Desert Island Discs?

• A British TV show about survival

• A music competition for emerging artists

• A radio show where guests choose their favorite records

• A podcast about travel and adventure

How does the speaker describe their reaction to being on Desert Island Discs?

• They were indifferent about it

• They were nervous and anxious

• They felt it was a minor achievement

• They thought it was the pinnacle of their career

According to the speaker, what is the Nobel Prize awarded for?

• A single groundbreaking discovery

• A lifetime of achievements

• A specific number of published works

• A particular innovative idea