#USA #Los Angeles #E.A. Hanks #Cloud Atlas #The 10

E.A. Hanks Discusses Literature's Impact on Her Life

In a captivating episode of the YouTube series and podcast Books That Changed My Life, renowned journalist and author E.A. Hanks engages in a deep and meaningful conversation about how literature has shaped her perspectives and life choices. Hosted by Chris 'Bulldog' Collins, the episode dives into Hanks' insights on the influence of David Mitchell's Cloud Atlas as she explores its profound themes and how they resonate with her personal experiences.

Hanks, a well-respected writer with contributions to esteemed publications like Vanity Fair, The New York Times, The Guardian, and Huffington Post, describes her encounter with Cloud Atlas as transformative. For her, the novel’s intricate narrative structure—navigating through time and interconnected stories—was like watching a skilled trapeze artist perform a breathtaking act. She expresses gratitude for the novel, stating, "It gave me a language to describe what I see wrong with the world," emphasizing the book’s exploration of ethical dilemmas and the complexities of human dignity.

Throughout the dialogue, Hanks candidly shares personal anecdotes from her tumultuous childhood, where she faced challenges arising from her mother’s mental health struggles and addiction. These early experiences deeply informed her worldview, embedding a sense of empathy and a nuanced understanding of societal hierarchies within her.

The episode not only focuses on Cloud Atlas, but also features discussions about Hanks' inspiring debut memoir titled The 10. This book reflects her travels along Interstate 10 and serves as a profound exploration of family, identity, and the myths that permeate American culture. Hanks describes the memoir as a labor of love, detailing her struggles with a skin excoriation disorder, the long road to healing, and her journey towards self-acceptance. She poetically remarks, "Writing The 10 was like shaking off dust in a beautifully empty room," elucidating how finishing the memoir unlocked new relationships and perspectives for her.

Host Chris Collins commends Hanks for her engaging storytelling and insightful observations, calling her journey "fascinating and all on [her] own." Together, they discuss essential topics from the dangers of glorifying dysfunction to the significance of curiosity in questioning the world around us. This vibrant exchange is particularly enriching for book lovers, aspiring writers, or anyone interested in exploring the depths of human experiences through literature.

Books That Changed My Life seeks to uncover the transformative power of literature through engaging discussions with various authors and thinkers. Under the guidance of Collins, the series combines literary analysis with personal storytelling, captivating audiences and encouraging reflection on the books that profoundly influence our lives. The latest episode is now available for viewing on YouTube and major podcast platforms, offering a window into the enlightening journey of E.A. Hanks and her reflections on literature's indispensable role in shaping lives.

In conclusion, E.A. Hanks’ intimate conversation about her life, creative process, and the lasting impact of books provides listeners with not only inspiration in their own journeys, but also a new lens through which to view societal structures and personal narratives. This episode is a must-see, embodying the essence of what it means to understand oneself through the literature we hold dear.