British writer Tessa Hadley was 46 when her first novel was published. With candid honesty, Hadley reveals her insecurities and challenges in finding her voice as a writer before becoming a celebrated novelist. Today Tessa Hadley is considered a master of weaving ordinary moments into extraordinary narratives that resonate with readers across generations. Reflecting on her earliest literary influences, Hadley reminisces about the ordinary yet enchanting stories that captured her imagination, laying the foundation for her preference for realism in storytelling. Hadley describes how her love for books shaped her imagination and friendships: “I always had an intense group of friends. The reading I did when I was solitary fed, in my heart, that friendship in that I got them to read the same books.” Hadley recounts her journey as a writer, acknowledging the challenges and doubts she faced along the way: “I tried, and I wrote, and I got more ambitious in my trying. It was all fake, and it was sort of horrible at the time because I didn’t feel I was very good at anything else.” The interview offers insights into Hadley’s creative process, meticulous attention to detail, and unique approach to capturing the essence of different eras in her writing. From the visceral sense of time and place to the subtle nuances of human interactions, Hadley’s storytelling is a testament to her keen observational skills and unwavering dedication to her craft. Throughout the interview, Hadley’s passion for storytelling shines through, offering aspiring writers and avid readers alike a glimpse into the creative process and the profound impact of literature on shaping our understanding of the world. Tessa Hadley was born in 1956 in London, United Kingdom. She is a critically acclaimed British writer known for her insightful exploration of human relationships and everyday life. Hadley’s notable achievements include the publication of several acclaimed novels and short story collections, including “Accidents in the Home,” “The London Train,” and “The Past,” which was a finalist for the Man Booker Prize. Her works have garnered widespread praise for their rich characterizations, elegant prose, and profound insights into the human condition. Hadley’s writing has earned her numerous awards and honors, establishing her as one of the preeminent voices in contemporary literature. Tessa Hadley was interviewed by Danish writer Merete Pryds Helle in connection with the Louisiana Literature Festival in August 2023 at the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, Denmark.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Cookie settingsACCEPT
Privacy & Cookies Policy
Privacy Overview
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
