Lucy Caldwell: ‘Even your text messages fizz after reading James Joyce’
Author Lucy Caldwell shares how reading deep literature changes the way she views the world. In a recent interview, she describes the impact of James Joyce, noting that his prose is so vibrant it can make even mundane daily communications seem to fizz with new energy.
Caldwell points to specific works that shaped her path as a writer and a reader. She recalls early experiences with folklore cassettes and the dark atmosphere of Susan Cooper's series. Her approach to literature is grounded in the idea that books act as tools for personal growth. She specifically highlights Jennifer Johnston’s How Many Miles to Babylon as the catalyst for her own desire to write.
Throughout the discussion, Caldwell emphasizes the value of revisiting classic texts at different stages of life. She shares how she waited until her 40s to read D.H. Lawrence, noting that her perspective as a mother and wife provided a better context for understanding his work. This reflection on reading habits suggests that the timing of when we pick up a book is just as important as the content itself.
Beyond fiction, Caldwell finds inspiration in mythology and essays. She recommends Clarissa Pinkola Estés’s work on the psychology of myths for women seeking a deeper connection to their own experiences. Her current reading list includes a variety of voices, proving that a disciplined reading life requires a balance of established classics and contemporary perspectives.
For those interested in her own creative process, Caldwell’s recent book, Devotions, is available now. Her insights offer a clear view into how a dedicated reader sustains a career in writing. By engaging with the right books at the right moments, she demonstrates how literature remains a relevant part of a modern, active life.