Are there limits to what can be said in factual prose? Might poets sometimes do a better job of conveying deeper meaning and emotional truth? Lindsey Hilsum has reported on conflicts for more than 30 years. Her latest book, I Brought the War with Me, juxtaposes poetry with frontline experiences.
Our conversation explores her reflections on a wide range of topics, including:
Why poetry speaks more timelessly than journalism
How difficult situations can bring out the best in people
Some potential limitations of reporting, as well as its value
The distinction between being an eyewitness and an activist
Whether locals or outsiders tell more trustworthy stories
Lindsey works as International Editor for Channel 4 News, and also contributes to newspapers and literary journals. Her previous book – about the war correspondent Marie Colvin – won the 2019 James Tait Black Prize for biography. For those outside the UK, this article explains the podcast’s reference to Gary Lineker…
Listen to this episode with a 7-day free trial
Subscribe to Ancient Futures to listen to this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.
