Bill Moyers: A World of Ideas - Writers

As the author of poetry, children's books, essays, and novels--including the bestselling Things Fall Apart--Achebe discusses the challenges of forging cultural identity in post-colonial Africa.

The winner of numerous writing awards--including multiple Hugos and Nebulas--shares his thoughts on the morality of science and the tensions between religion and reason.

Continuing the discussion, Asimov explains the need to rethink education and raise awareness of global environmental threats.

Winner of the National Book Award and PEN/Faulkner Award, among other honors, Doctorow discusses the current state of the novel and the role of the artist in society.

The celebrated essayist and memoirist speaks frankly about growing old, the aesthetics of eating, and living well.

A novelist, essayist, playwright, and screenwriter, Fuentes discusses the political and cultural challenges facing his native Mexico and intra-American relations.

The internationally acclaimed novelist tells of growing up under apartheid, her early influences, and the political turmoil in her native South Africa.

A concert pianist, music teacher, and novelist, Haien shares her thoughts on the structure of music and fiction and the importance of "emotional memory" in her work.

The novelist who added the term "catch-22" to the American lexicon discusses the absurdity of politics and the seriousness of comedy.

Culled from the many interviews taped by Moyers throughout his career, these are far-reaching discussions about weighty topics.

The award-winning novelist continues her discussion about the liberating power of love--in fiction, in real life, and in motherhood.

Born in India, this award-winning novelist and writer calls America "a stage for transformation"--not only for herself, but also for her fellow immigrants.

The Caribbean-born writer speaks of poets' obsession with language and truth telling and the "divine discontent" at the heart of all art.

As a Pulizer Prize-winning playwright, Wilson discusses how the linguistic environment shapes African Americans and how his characters find nobility in struggle.

Novelist, essayist, and cultural critic, Wolfe shares his thoughts on Wall Street greed, "media ricochet," and the power of neighborhood politics.

In a continuation of the discussion, Wolfe offers more observations on contemporary culture and the specious conflict between intellectuals and "the masters."