In the most recent book by Ben Lerner titled “Transcription,” the protagonist accidentally drops his phone into the sink while on a trip to Rhode Island for a crucial interview. This interview is with Thomas, a 90-year-old mentor and the father of his university friend, known for his brilliance. Despite lacking a recording device, the protagonist proceeds with the interview. The novel captures this conversation, although the phone does not. Lerner, in a conversation with Mattea Roach on “Bookends,” explained that the protagonist revisits his school days and personal memories while also gearing up for what Thomas calls an “exit interview,” marking the final recorded conversation with Thomas.
The author delves into why the protagonist hesitates to admit he is not recording the interview, suggesting it could be due to a sense of embarrassment and reverence towards Thomas. The protagonist’s fear of this being Thomas’s last recorded conversation, as he nears the end of his life, may contribute to his actions. Additionally, Lerner explores the theme of what fiction can capture that traditional recording methods may miss, emphasizing the unique insights and complexities that storytelling can convey beyond mere recordings.
Lerner further discusses the notion that humans act as media, transmitting messages that are shaped by their own experiences and perspectives. He examines how the roles of mentor and father intersect in his work, reflecting on the challenges of balancing artistic expression with parental responsibilities. The author muses on the tension between unpredictability in writing and the desire for stability in parenting, drawing from his personal experiences as a writer and a father.
Regarding the balance between irony and authenticity in his art, Lerner highlights how irony can lead back to sincerity, enhancing the depth and meaning of his work. He suggests that the irony depicted in “Transcription” ultimately serves to underscore the authenticity captured within the narrative, transcending mere failures in communication.
Overall, Lerner’s novel delves into the complexities of human relationships, the power of storytelling, and the nuances of artistic expression, offering readers a thought-provoking exploration of truth and fiction.
