The LRB Podcast

In Conversation: On John Berger

Jan 4, 2017
Marking John Berger’s 90th birthday, guests Tom Overton, Yasmin Gunaratnam, and Mike Dibb explore his profound legacy. Overton shares insights from Berger's archives, while Gunaratnam discusses his international impact through diverse storytelling. Dibb reminisces about their collaboration on 'Ways of Seeing,' detailing the creative process behind this influential work. They delve into Berger's unique perspectives on art, politics, and identity, celebrating his lasting influence on writers and artists worldwide.
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INSIGHT

Politics Moves To The Fore

  • Berger's later work increasingly foregrounds prison, exile and Palestine as lenses on contemporary injustice.
  • Overton sees these political preoccupations as consistent with Berger's exile theme across his career.
ANECDOTE

Curating By Berger's Lines

  • Yasmin Gunaratnam structured A Jar Of Wildflowers with section titles drawn from Berger's lines to evoke his poetics.
  • She mixed international voices and surprising juxtapositions to reflect Berger's wide influence.
INSIGHT

Diversifying Berger's Conversation

  • Gunaratnam purposely included women of colour and younger scholars to broaden Berger reception beyond expected voices.
  • Contributors examine how his ideas transform in distinct political and cultural contexts.
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