My conversation with Philip Graham

Many of us regret losing touch with old friends. I know I do. If you live long enough, and in enough places, your time begins to feel like many lives strung together, each with its own social circle. There are people with whom I used to spend every weekday, sometimes for long hours, and while I hold fond feelings toward them, I haven’t talked with them in years. But sometimes, we have the fortune to reconnect with an old friend. A few years ago, I found myself back in touch with my college writing professor, Philip Graham. Philip is one of those special artists who can create extraordinary works, but also teach and mentor emerging artists. During his time at Illinois, he nurtured many talented young writers while also producing several acclaimed books—fiction and non-fiction. (Check them out here.)

Although he’s retired from regular teaching, Philip hasn’t slowed down. One cool thing he does is contribute writer interviews (which are really conversations) for 3 Quarks Daily. Over the winter, he and I had just such a conversation, and I’m hoping you’ll enjoy reading it here:

Part 1: Ghosts, Love, and the Search for Readers: A two-part conversation with writer Kipling Knox

Part 2: A Continuing Conversation With Writer Kipling Knox

And then, maybe you’ll feel inspired to reach out to an old friend. You never know what joy that might bring.

Have a good one,

Kipling Knox