The Rest is Poetry – Lindsey Hilsum

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Are there limits to what can be said in factual prose? Might poets sometimes do a better job of conveying deeper meaning and emotional truth? Lindsey Hilsum has reported on conflicts for more than 30 years. Her latest book, I Brought the War with Me, juxtaposes poetry with frontline experiences.

Our conversation explores her reflections on a wide range of topics, including:

* Why poetry speaks more timelessly than journalism

* How difficult situations can bring out the best in people

* Some potential limitations of reporting, as well as its value

* The distinction between being an eyewitness and an activist

* Whether locals or outsiders tell more trustworthy stories

Lindsey works as International Editor for Channel 4 News, and also contributes to newspapers and literary journals. Her previous book – about the war correspondent Marie Colvin – won the 2019 James Tait Black Prize for biography. For those outside the UK, this article explains the podcast's reference to Gary Lineker…

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