Fresh Air: How Screenwriting Saved Novelist Richard Price
Hosted by Terry Gross, NPR’s "Fresh Air" delves into the life and work of acclaimed novelist and screenwriter Richard Price. In this episode, Price discusses his latest novel, "Lazarus Man," explores the intersections of his personal experiences with his writing, and reflects on themes of race, gratitude, and aging.
Introduction to Richard Price and "Lazarus Man"
Terry Gross opens the conversation by introducing Richard Price, highlighting his extensive career as a novelist and screenwriter. Price’s new novel, "Lazarus Man," marks his return after nearly a decade. Set in Harlem, where Price has resided since 2008—the same year the novel is set—the story examines the profound impact of a catastrophic five-story building collapse on the lives of various characters in the neighborhood.
Notable Quote:
“Lazarus man is the strangest of urban thrillers, a thoughtful, even peaceful story about stumbling into new life.” – Ron Charles, The Washington Post [00:18]
Reading and Themes from the Novel
Price begins by reading the opening passage of "Lazarus Man," introducing Anthony Carter, a 42-year-old grappling with unemployment, separation from his family, and recent sobriety. The excerpt captures Anthony’s restless nights and his futile search for meaning in the bustling streets of Harlem.
Excerpt Reading:
“...But maybe this time is a drug, you never know is a drug. So out the door he went.” [02:06]
Personal Reflections and Writing Process
Gossip reflects on Price’s earlier comments from 1986, connecting them to his current work. Price elaborates on his past feelings of discontent and restlessness, acknowledging personal growth and a newfound sense of calmness.
Notable Quote:
“It was a level of dissatisfaction I felt, but I don't feel that anymore. I grew out of it and now I'm kind of... more relaxed and settled than I've ever been.” [03:46]
Writing During the COVID Shutdown
The discussion shifts to the challenges Price faced while writing "Lazarus Man" during the COVID-19 pandemic. Living in Manhattan, a city deeply affected by the pandemic, Price reflects on themes of mortality and unpredictability that influenced his work.
Notable Quote:
“I love to go out on the street, talk to people. It's a lot more fun than writing. And I couldn't do that. ... that sort of messed me up.” [04:48]
Exploring Religion and Humanism
Price delves into his religious background, sharing his Jewish upbringing and how his relationship with religion has evolved into a more humanistic worldview. This perspective subtly permeates his novel, particularly through themes of survival and resilience.
Notable Quote:
“I feel guided now. And my purpose in being here today is to deliver to you a message that just might make it possible to accept your aching hearts and continue to live the life that he has given you.” [07:25]
Race and Representation in Writing
A significant portion of the conversation focuses on Price’s approach to writing biracial and black characters. He addresses concerns about cultural appropriation, emphasizing his lived experiences in multiethnic communities and his commitment to creating fully three-dimensional characters.
Notable Quote:
“My responsibility is to create a character that is as fully three dimensional as I can make that character.” [13:02]
Price discusses his novel "Clockers" (1998) and how growing up in a diverse housing project informed his portrayal of African American characters. He asserts that authentic representation goes beyond mere stereotypes, advocating for nuanced and respectful character development.
Dialogue and Characterization
Price highlights the importance of authentic dialogue in his writing, viewing it as a character’s fingerprint. He explains that dialogue should reflect how people truly speak and think, adding depth and realism to characters.
Notable Quote:
“People say stuff and it's like a fingerprint for that character. And you gotta hear it.” [17:03]
Personal Anecdotes: Street Cons
Sharing personal experiences, Price recounts encounters with street cons, illustrating the everyday challenges and deceptions one might face in urban settings like Harlem. These anecdotes enrich his storytelling, grounding his fictional narratives in real-life observations.
Notable Quote:
“People in that area, you don't toss around money to somebody who, you know, you don't know...” [24:45]
Screenwriting and Its Impact on Price's Life
Price reveals a pivotal moment in his career when screenwriting became a lifeline, rescuing him from personal and professional struggles. He credits screenwriting with providing financial stability, personal growth, and expanding his creative horizons.
Notable Quote:
“Screenwriting saved my life, my mental life, my spiritual life, my financial life, and actually my physical life.” [28:05]
Price discusses how transitioning to screenwriting forced him out of his comfort zone, leading him to engage more deeply with diverse environments and characters. This shift not only rejuvenated his writing but also enriched his personal life, including his marriage and parenthood.
Reflections on Aging and Mortality
At 75, Price reflects on the inevitability of aging and the loss of friends. He acknowledges the emotional challenges that come with witnessing peers succumb to illness and dementia, balancing these reflections with a sense of acceptance and resilience.
Notable Quote:
“It's not easy, but most of the people I know or I knew who have passed in my life, I was not that close to.” [36:35]
Influence of Family and Parenthood
Price speaks candidly about how becoming a parent altered his perspective and writing. His children have instilled in him a sense of responsibility and selflessness, shifting his focus from himself to their well-being.
Notable Quote:
“They raised me. They changed me.” [38:13]
He describes how fatherhood awakened a profound tenderness and keenness, transforming his approach both personally and professionally.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
As the interview wraps up, Price emphasizes the interconnectedness of his life experiences and his writing. Through "Lazarus Man," he weaves themes of survival, community, and personal transformation, drawing from his rich tapestry of personal growth, professional challenges, and enduring relationships.
Final Notable Quote:
“Screenwriting saved me.” [28:05]
"Lazarus Man" stands as a testament to Richard Price’s enduring ability to capture the complexities of urban life, enriched by his personal journey and professional evolution. This "Fresh Air" episode offers profound insights into the resilience of the human spirit, the importance of authentic storytelling, and the transformative power of creativity.