Words Are My Matter

Writings About Life and Books, 2000-2016, with a Journal of a Writer’s Week

By: Ursula K. Le Guin

Narrated by: Laural Merlington

Words Are My Matter gathers talks, essays, introductions to beloved books, and book reviews by Ursula K. Le Guin, one of our foremost public literary intellectuals.

A must-listen collection, Words Are My Matter is a manual for investigating the depth and breadth of contemporary fiction - and, through the lens of deep considerations of contemporary writing, a way of exploring the world we are all living in. "We need writers who know the difference between production of a market commodity and the practice of an art. Developing written material to suit sales strategies in order to maximize corporate profit and advertising revenue is not the same thing as responsible book publishing or authorship."*

Le Guin is one of those authors, and this is another of her moments. She has published more than 60 books ranging from fiction to nonfiction, children's books to poetry, and has received many lifetime achievement awards, including the Library of Congress Living Legends award.

*From "Freedom", a speech in acceptance of the National Book Foundation Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters.

©2016 Ursula K. Le Guin (P)2018 Tantor

Critic reviews

"What she says of poetry - 'Its primary job is simply to find the words that give it its right, true shape' - might well be said of all the shapely pieces in this generous, edifying, and invaluable collection." (Booklist, Starred Review)

Perfect for commutes

LeGuin had many interesting and/or thoughtful things to say and I enjoy this collection immensely. I’m glad she made it. To my ear, the narrator fits her essay voice perfectly. I wouldn’t change a thing.

LOVE URSULA!

you have to have a hard core interest in what interests Ursula. But I do! I find her writing and opinions fascinating ...Found some obscure books I cant wait to read

One of Le Guin's best collections

I love Le Guin so much. I was lucky enough to see her in person back in the 80s. She has shaped my life as a teacher and writer and mother. This collection is pure gold, and Laural Merlington's narration is perfect. I first listened to the book, then bought a copy and re-listened and went back to underline and highlight all the important points.