On the cusp of 65, Bonnie Garmus published her debut novel Lessons in Chemistry. It was a global sensation and the copywriter, who had a previous manuscript rejected by publishers 98 times, sold almost 10 million copies and enjoyed being co-executive producer when it was made into an eight-part streaming hit starring Brie Larson. 

Today, Garmus talks about her new novel Peck & Peck, which explores – through a delightfully-named young man Batter Gray – the themes of art in a time of pragmatism, and empathy in a world driven by technology intended “to make money, not make what is worthwhile”. 

The US-born, now UK-based Garmus also opens up about the importance of poetry, explaining why she reads a new poem every day and how that ritual has changed her. Plus: her 5am starts, the work of writing and rewriting – and beginning anew when everyone believes your time is done.

Today’s conversation is hosted by National Books Editor at The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, Melanie Kembrey.

On the cusp of 65, Bonnie Garmus published her debut novel Lessons in Chemistry. It was a global sensation and the copywriter, who had a previous manuscript rejected by publishers 98 times, sold almost 10 million copies and enjoyed being co-executive producer when it was made into an eight-part streaming hit starring Brie Larson.&nbsp;
Today, Garmus talks about her new novel Peck &amp; Peck, which explores &ndash; through a delightfully-named young man Batter Gray &ndash; the themes of art in a time of pragmatism, and empathy in a world driven by technology intended &ldquo;to make money, not make what is worthwhile&rdquo;.&nbsp;
The US-born, now UK-based Garmus also opens up about the importance of poetry, explaining why she reads a new poem every day and how that ritual has changed her. Plus: her 5am starts, the work of writing and rewriting &ndash; and beginning anew when everyone believes your time is done.
Today&rsquo;s conversation is hosted by National Books Editor at The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, Melanie Kembrey.

Good Weekend Talks features in-depth conversations with the people fascinating Australians right now, from sport to politics to the arts, business and beyond, interviewed weekly by the country's top journalists. Consider it a magazine for your ears.

Good Weekend Talks features in-depth conversations with the people fascinating Australians right now, from sport to politics to the arts, business and beyond, interviewed weekly by the country's top journalists. Consider it a magazine for your ears.

Good Weekend Talks

Bonnie Garmus on why the 'least admired' art – poetry – might end up saving the world

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/88b564ea-a9a6-4751-910a-a5d800019396/clips/fd6f52ac-a8f3-45aa-ad45-b4dc00723c36/transcript