Ross Andersen — editor and staff writer at The Atlantic — and Craig discuss Craig's new book that defies traditional genres. Initially thought to be a travelogue, the book turns out to be a profound grief memoir intertwined with reflections on American culture and philosophy of walking. Craig discusses the origins and structure of his book, which was inspired by a need for stillness prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic, his deep connection to Japan, and his long walks on its pilgrimage routes. Craig continues to describe his process of blending vivid travel experiences with meditative writing, the influence of Japanese cultural concepts such as impermanence, and his continuous effort to maintain creative rigor. The conversation also explores how different lengths of walks impact one's mental state, the importance of setting self-imposed deadlines, and the role of film photography in his creative work.

Guest Links:

• Ross Andersen: https://www.theatlantic.com/author/ross-andersen/

• The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/

Find Craig online at: https://craigmod.com

And pick up a copy of "Things Become Other Things":

• Amazon: https://amzn.to/3z1CjSt

• Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/p/books/things-become-other-things-a-memoir-craig-mod/21707235?ean=9780593732540

• Apple Books: https://books.apple.com/us/book/things-become-other-things/id6618121918

• Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/things-become-other-things-craig-mod/1146138224?ean=9780593732540