In this series, writers discuss the trials of writing and publishing that first novel, that first play, that first book of poems. This is a chance to see how successful authors got their start, in their own words—it’s a portrait of the artist as a beginner and a look at the creative process, in all its joy, abjection, delusion, and euphoria.

Celebrating Issue no. 237

If you missed the Paris Review Summer 2021 issue launch, watch it now. The program includes readings of poetry and prose from the issue including work by Kaveh Akbar, Ada Limón, and Kenan Orhan.

Video of the Day

Karl Ove Knausgaard’s First Time

Karl Ove Knausgaard discusses his first book, ‘Ute av verden’ (Out of the World). Part of ‘The Paris Review’'s “My First Time” video interview series.

Akhil Sharma’s First Time

Akhil Sharma discusses his first book, “An Obedient Father.” Part of The Paris Review’s “My First Time” video interview series.

Vivian Gornick’s First Time

Vivian Gornick discusses her first book, “In Search of Ali Mahmoud: an American Woman in Egypt.” Part of The Paris Review’s “My First Time” video interview series.

Helen DeWitt’s First Time

Helen DeWitt discusses her first novel, “The Last Samurai.” Part of The Paris Review’s “My First Time” video interview series.

Jeffrey Eugenides’s First Time

Jeffrey Eugenides discusses his first novel, “The Virgin Suicides.” Part of The Paris Review’s “My First Time” video interview series.

Katori Hall’s First Time

Katori Hall discusses her first play, “Hoodoo Love.” Part of The Paris Review’s “My First Time” video interview series.

Ben Lerner’s First Time

Ben Lerner discusses his first book of poetry, “The Lichtenberg Figures.” Part of The Paris Review’s “My First Time” video interview series.

Tao Lin’s First Time

Tao Lin discusses his first book, “Bed.” Part of The Paris Review’s “My First Time” video interview series.

Sheila Heti’s First Time

Sheila Heti discusses her first book, “The Middle Stories.” Part of The Paris Review’s “My First Time” video interview series.

Christine Schutt’s First Time

Christine Schutt discusses her first collection of stories, “Nightwork.” Part of The Paris Review’s “My First Time” video interview series.

Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’s First Time

Branden Jacobs-Jenkins discusses his first play, “Neighbors.” Part of The Paris Review’s “My First Time” video interview series.

Gabrielle Bell’s First Time

Gabrielle Bell discusses her first book. Part of The Paris Review’s “My First Time” video interview series.

J. Robert Lennon’s First Time

J. Robert Lennon discusses his first book, “The Light of Falling Stars.” Part of The Paris Review’s “My First Time” video interview series.

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