Saul Bellow and Finding a Voice
Andrew Marr discusses literature and experience with guests Zachary Leader, Speech DeBelle, Robert Icke and Linda Grant.
On Start the Week Andrew Marr talks to Zachary Leader about the life and work of Saul Bellow, one of America's most famous novelists. Bellow's vivid prose and mix of high and low culture brought 20th century America to life. Linda Grant reflects on his significance for writers today and on the literature of immigration he represents. Aeschylus' play cycle The Oresteia brought to the stage a world the Ancient Greeks understood only too well - family drama and bloody politics. In a new production Robert Icke radically re-imagines the play for a modern audience. The rapper Speech DeBelle looks back at what inspired her to find her voice, and the challenge to retain it.
Producer: Luke Mulhall.
Last on
More episodes
Previous
Clip
![]()
Speech DeBelle Finds Her Voice
Duration: 08:30
Zachary Leader
Zachary Leader is Professor of English Literature at the University of Roehampton.
The Life of Saul Bellow: To Fame and Fortune 1915 – 1964 is published by Jonathan Cape.
Linda Grant
Linda Grant is a novelist and journalist.
Speech Debelle
Speech Debelle is an award-winning rapper and musician.
Speech Debelle will be taking part in a panel discussion called ‘Finding Voices’ at the Soho Create Festival on Friday 5 June at the Huguenot Church.
Robert Icke
Robert Icke is a theatre director, currently Associate Director at the Almeida Theatre.
Oresteia is on at the Almeida Theatre in London from 29 May - 18 July.
Credits
| Role | Contributor |
|---|---|
| Presenter | Andrew Marr |
| Interviewed Guest | Zachary Leader |
| Interviewed Guest | Speech Debelle |
| Interviewed Guest | Robert Icke |
| Interviewed Guest | Linda Grant |
| Producer | Luke Mulhall |
Broadcasts
- Mon 1 Jun 201509:00BBC Radio 4
- Mon 1 Jun 201521:30BBC Radio 4
Podcast
![]()
Start the Week
Weekly discussion programme, setting the cultural agenda every Monday
