British writer Tessa Hadley was 46 when her first novel was published. With candid honesty, Hadley reveals her insecurities and challenges in finding her voice as a writer before becoming a celebrated novelist.
Today Tessa Hadley is considered a master of weaving ordinary moments into extraordinary narratives that resonate with readers across generations. Reflecting on her earliest literary influences, Hadley reminisces about the ordinary yet enchanting stories that captured her imagination, laying the foundation for her preference for realism in storytelling.
Hadley describes how her love for books shaped her imagination and friendships: “I always had an intense group of friends. The reading I did when I was solitary fed, in my heart, that friendship in that I got them to read the same books.”
Hadley recounts her journey as a writer, acknowledging the challenges and doubts she faced along the way: “I tried, and I wrote, and I got more ambitious in my trying. It was all fake, and it was sort of horrible at the time because I didn’t feel I was very good at anything else.”
The interview offers insights into Hadley’s creative process, meticulous attention to detail, and unique approach to capturing the essence of different eras in her writing. From the visceral sense of time and place to the subtle nuances of human interactions, Hadley’s storytelling is a testament to her keen observational skills and unwavering dedication to her craft.
Throughout the interview, Hadley’s passion for storytelling shines through, offering aspiring writers and avid readers alike a glimpse into the creative process and the profound impact of literature on shaping our understanding of the world.
Tessa Hadley was born in 1956 in London, United Kingdom. She is a critically acclaimed British writer known for her insightful exploration of human relationships and everyday life. Hadley’s notable achievements include the publication of several acclaimed novels and short story collections, including “Accidents in the Home,” “The London Train,” and “The Past,” which was a finalist for the Man Booker Prize. Her works have garnered widespread praise for their rich characterizations, elegant prose, and profound insights into the human condition. Hadley’s writing has earned her numerous awards and honors, establishing her as one of the preeminent voices in contemporary literature.
Tessa Hadley was interviewed by Danish writer Merete Pryds Helle in connection with the Louisiana Literature Festival in August 2023 at the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, Denmark.
Camera: Rasmus Quistgaard
Edit: Signe Boe Pedersen
Produced by Christian Lund
Copyright: Louisiana Channel, Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, 2023.
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