Episode Summary: Colum McCann on TWIST: A Novel

In this enlightening episode of Totally Booked with Zibby, host Zibby Owens sits down with the acclaimed author Colum McCann to delve into his latest work, TWIST: A Novel. The conversation, released on April 9, 2025, offers listeners a deep dive into the novel's themes, character development, and the intricate realities of global communication infrastructure.

Introduction to Colum McCann

[03:26] Zibby Owens:
Zibby introduces Colum McCann, highlighting his extensive bibliography, including bestsellers like A Paragon, Transatlantic, and Let the Great World Spin. She notes his numerous accolades, such as the National Book Award and the International Dublin Literary Award, and his contributions to major publications like The New Yorker and The New York Times. McCann's involvement with the nonprofit organization Narrative 4 is also mentioned, emphasizing his commitment to fostering empathy through storytelling.

Exploring TWIST: A Novel

[03:26] McCann's Departure from the Pack: McCann opens the discussion by addressing the modern phenomenon of being "totally booked," reflecting on society's incessant busyness and its impact on personal well-being.

[04:06] The Sanctuary of Reading:
Colum McCann: “I read to get out of the totally booked mindset. Like reading for me is the only time I'm not looking at my phone... that is my only sacred space.”
McCann shares his personal refuge in reading, emphasizing the physical book's role in providing a break from digital distractions.

[05:23] The Heart of TWIST:
McCann provides a captivating overview of TWIST, revealing its focus on the often-overlooked underwater cables that form the backbone of global communication. He explains:
“Everything we rely on for communication travels in the cold, wet, dark bottom of the sea in these very small tubes... it's a miracle.”
The novel intertwines the fragility of these connections with themes reminiscent of Joseph Conrad's Heart of Darkness, exploring how information equates to power in the modern world.

The Reality Behind Underwater Cables

[07:11] The Harsh Truth of Cable Maintenance:
McCann astonishes listeners with the sheer difficulty of maintaining underwater cables:
“There are only about 400 working cables in the world. If a few of them get disrupted at once, it can cause chaos.”
He discusses the vulnerabilities of these infrastructures, including potential sabotage and the geopolitical tensions exemplified by recent incidents involving Chinese and Russian fishing vessels.

[08:58] Accessibility and Security Concerns:
Highlighting personal experiences, McCann describes his visit to a landing station in Long Island:
“I could have lifted up [a manhole cover] with a crowbar and touched the cables... it's quite easy to get.”
He underscores the alarming lack of security and the ease with which these critical infrastructures can be accessed and potentially damaged.

[12:45] The Implications of Cable Sabotage:
The conversation takes a tense turn as McCann speculates on the catastrophic potential of coordinated cable disruptions:
“There are people who say that it is possible that the next 911 will happen underwater because our cables and our landing stations... are so vulnerable to potential sabotage.”

Character Development and Themes in TWIST

[20:42] Anthony Fennell’s Journey:
McCann delves into the protagonist's arc, detailing his struggle with alcoholism and past traumas. He draws parallels to literary figures like T.S. Eliot's J. Alfred Prufrock, highlighting themes of loneliness and the quest for redemption.

[21:25] The Duality of Characters:
He introduces the chief of mission, a mysterious character responsible for the technical aspects of cable maintenance, emphasizing the novel's exploration of communication barriers and the inherent difficulty in truly knowing another person.

[25:21] Personal Growth Through Storytelling:
McCann reflects on his motivations, connecting his work with Narrative 4 to the novel’s themes:
“Stories can be fun and powerful... they can break through issues of stereotypes and borders and boundaries.”
He expresses hope that storytelling can bridge divides and foster empathy, mirroring the novel's focus on repairing both physical and metaphorical connections.

Author's Inspiration and Broader Impact

[25:36] McCann’s Evolution as a Writer:
Tracing his journey from journalism to novelist, McCann discusses his relentless pursuit of diverse narratives and forms. He emphasizes his dedication to pushing boundaries and challenging both himself and his readers.

[30:04] The Role of Empathy and Kindness:
Towards the episode's conclusion, McCann advocates for empathy as a countermeasure to societal fragmentation:
“To be kind, to be kind, to be kind.”
He envisions a world where understanding and personal connections can mitigate conflicts exacerbated by misinformation and technological vulnerabilities.

Closing Thoughts

[31:37] A Note of Hope:
The episode wraps on an inspiring note, with McCann expressing optimism despite acknowledging the challenges:
“With stories, when they are properly asserted and shared... something really magical can happen.”
Zibby commends McCann for his intellect and kindness, reinforcing the episode's overarching message of empathy and connection through storytelling.

Notable Quotes:

• Colum McCann [04:06]:
  “Reading for me is the only time I'm not looking at my phone... that is my only sacred space.”

• Colum McCann [05:23]:
  “If this is not a miracle, then I don't know what is.”

• Colum McCann [12:45]:
  “There are people who say that it is possible that the next 911 will happen underwater because our cables and our landing stations... are so vulnerable to potential sabotage.”

• Colum McCann [25:36]:
  “Stories can take away your house or your country or your mortgage or your identity... but stories can also be super powerful and healing and miraculous when they are properly asserted and shared with one another.”

• Colum McCann [30:19]:
  “What all the great philosophers say at the end of their lives... to be kind, to be kind, to be kind.”

Conclusion

This episode offers a compelling blend of literary analysis and real-world implications, showcasing Colum McCann's ability to intertwine intricate technical details with profound human emotions. Through TWIST: A Novel, McCann not only entertains but also educates listeners on the fragile infrastructure that supports our digital lives, all while advocating for empathy and connection in an increasingly disconnected world.

For those intrigued by the intersection of technology, storytelling, and human resilience, this episode is a must-listen. McCann's insights provide a richer understanding of his work and the critical themes that resonate in today's society.