Words and Worlds

Poignant remembrances and sharp observations from the "most able and witty" Pulitzer Prize–winning author of Foreign Affairs (The New York Times). This engaging new collection of essays from the New York Times–bestselling novelist gathers together her reflections on the writing life; fond recollections of inspiring friends; and perceptive, playful commentary on preoccupations ranging from children's literature to fashion and feminism. Citing her husband's comment to her that "Nobody asked you to write a novel," Lurie goes on to eloquently explain why there was never another choice for her. She looks back on attending Radcliffe in the 1940s—an era of wartime rations and a wall of sexism where it was understood that Harvard was only for the men. From offering a gleeful glimpse into Jonathan Miller's production of Hamlet to memorializing mentors and intimate friends such as poet James Merrill,...