Summary

Host Elena Lappin interviews acclaimed novelist Ben Markovits about his Booker-shortlisted novel THE REST OF OUR LIVES. Tom's wife Amy had an affair many years ago, and now that their youngest daughter is leaving home, Tom is supposedly ready to end his marriage. But will he? Markovits talks about the complexities of navigating middle age, focusing on the narrowing options individuals face as they grow older. It explores the idea of self-experimentation and the potential for personal growth, while also addressing the emotional challenges of leaving behind a previous life. The discussion highlights the tension between the desire for change and the reality of established life paths.

Keywords

middle age, life choices, parenthood, self-experimentation, happiness, personal growth, life course, change, identity, marriage, infidelity

Takeaways

One of the problems with middle age is the illusion of choices.

As you get older, the options narrow significantly.

People often struggle with the idea of their life course being set.

Self-experimentation can lead to unexpected happiness.

You can do almost anything to yourself and still find joy.

The heart of Tom's predicament lies in his sense of possibility.

Embracing change is essential for personal growth.

Betraying the past can be a part of moving forward.

Middle age brings a unique set of challenges and opportunities.

Understanding one's capacity for change is crucial.

Sound bites

"The options narrow as you get older."

"It might not even make you unhappy."

"Experimentation can lead to happiness."

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