In the most recent book by author Ben Lerner, titled “Transcription,” the protagonist accidentally drops his phone in the sink while on a trip to Rhode Island for a crucial interview. The interview is with Thomas, a 90-year-old mentor and the father of a friend from university, known for his genius. Despite not having a recording device, the protagonist proceeds with the interview.
Lerner, during an episode of “Bookends with Mattea Roach,” shared insights into the novel, emphasizing the protagonist’s journey back to his alma mater and his personal reflections. The impending interview is described as Thomas’s “exit interview,” marking the last time Thomas will speak on tape.
The author delved into the complexities of the protagonist’s reluctance to admit the lack of recording equipment during the interview. This hesitance is attributed to a mix of reverence for Thomas and a fear of acknowledging Thomas’s frailty and mortality. The novel explores the power of fiction to capture truths that traditional recording methods may miss.
Regarding the unique elements fiction can capture that are absent in conventional recordings, Lerner highlighted the role of humans as mediums for conveying messages. The novel also delves into the interplay between mentorship and fatherhood, drawing parallels between the responsibilities of creating art and parenting.
Lerner discussed the balance between irony and authenticity in his work, noting that irony can lead back to sincerity. Despite instances of failure to capture voices accurately in the book, the underlying irony serves to enhance the authenticity of the narrative, ultimately achieving a meaningful outcome.
