In Conversation with Jesse Ball

There are two things in writing: one is to say something with the form of what you’re saying, and the other is to say something with the content of what you are saying. … I think content is not completely arbitrary, but to a certain degree, it doesn’t always matter. If you really adore the way that someone thinks—whether they’re talking about asparagus or motorcycles—it’s just pleasant to listen, if you’re fond of them.  

Over at Between the Covers, podcast host David Naimon talks with author Jesse Ball about his latest novel How to Set a Fire and Why, experimental form, his writing and teaching ethos, and creativity. Have a listen, and be in awe.

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Stephanie Bento is a writer, classical cellist, and photographer living in Washington, DC. In her writing, she is interested in exploring the musicality of sound and form, and our connection to time and place. Find out more about her creative work at saudadebelle.com, or say hello/bonjour on Twitter @saudadebelle.

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The Rumpus publishes original fiction, poetry, literary humor writing, comics, essays, book reviews, and interviews with authors and artists of all kinds. Our mostly volunteer-run magazine strives to be a platform for risk-taking voices and writing that might not find a home elsewhere. We lift up new voices alongside those of more established writers our readers may already know and love. We want to bring new perspectives into the conversation that will make us all look deeper.

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