This week, Isaac talks to author and returning guest Jonathan Lethem! In the interview, Jonathan discusses his brand new book, Brooklyn Crime Novel, which revisits themes and settings that Jonathan engaged with in his previous works, Fortress of Solitude and Motherless Brooklyn. This time, Jonathan uses unusual storytelling tactics–like characters without names and chapters that vary wildly in length–to rediscover the Brooklyn of his youth.  

After the interview, Isaac and co-host June Thomas talk about why great artists often return to the same material over and over. 

In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Jonathan explains how he mapped out Brooklyn Crime Novel’s unusual structure. 

Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.

Podcast production by Cameron Drews.

If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices