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cover of episode Ta-Nehisi Coates On Why Books Scare People

Ta-Nehisi Coates On Why Books Scare People

2024/10/13
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Up First

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Ta-Nehisi Coates discusses his new book, "The Message," which originated from an overdue writing assignment. He explains how literature and art influence politics and how his book explores this connection.
  • Coates's book, 'The Message,' stemmed from an uncompleted essay about a trip to Dakar.
  • Coates believes literature and art significantly shape political views.
  • He argues that cultural elements like statues and stories influence political discourse.

Shownotes Transcript

Author Ta-Nehisi Coates is no stranger to controversy. Over a decade ago Coates wrote his thought provoking article in The Atlantic magazine titled The Case for Reparations. The article sparked a global conversation and led to Coates testifying in front of congress about reparations. Now Coates is back with a new book of essays, one of which takes on the conflict in the West Bank. Today on The Sunday Story host Ayesha Rascoe talks to author Ta-Nehisi Coates about his new book, The Message and why some people fear books so much they lead efforts to have them banned.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices)NPR Privacy Policy)