Episode 68 - Very Good Lives: J.K. Rowling on Failure and Imagination

In this episode, we delve into J.K. Rowling’s powerful 2008 Harvard address, which was later expanded into the illustrated book Very Good Lives. Her speech explores the unexpected "fringe benefits of failure" and the crucial importance of imagination. Drawing from her own experience of being "the biggest failure she knew," Rowling argues that hitting rock bottom can be a liberating experience. It strips away the inessential and allows you to rebuild your life on a foundation of truth and purpose.

We will explore the two central themes of Rowling’s speech: failure and imagination. The episode unpacks her argument that it is impossible to live without failing at something, unless you live so cautiously you might as well not have lived at all. We also analyze her belief that imagination is not just a tool for creativity, but the foundation of all empathy and innovation. Her speech is a powerful testament to the power of resilience.

This is a deep dive into how our darkest moments can lead to our greatest discoveries. We explore J.K. Rowling’s hard-won lessons on how to build a very good life.