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January 15, 2026
‘How do you really tell the truth about this moment?’: George Saunders on ghosts, mortality and Trump’s America
The Lincoln in the Bardo author is back with another metaphysical tale. He discusses Buddhism, partisan politics and the terrifying flight that changed his life
TL;DR
- George Saunders's new novel, "Vigil," is a ghost story about an oil tycoon confronted by spirits regarding his legacy on climate change denial.
- Saunders is drawn to ghost stories because they acknowledge the presence of the past and the deceased, offering a more truthful narrative.
- He believes confronting mortality offers a new perspective on life, stripping away distractions and highlighting what truly matters.
- A near-death experience on a plane highlighted a primal fear, but also, surprisingly, a moment of connection and humor.
- Saunders sees writing as a "sacramental act" that expands empathy, allowing him to view others as different versions of himself.
- His short stories often use fantastical, dystopian settings to magnify societal absurdities and critique American culture with compassion.
- Saunders teaches that literature can make people better by requiring writers and readers to transcend themselves and exercise reflection and empathy.
- His novel "Vigil" explores the idea of "elevation," where lives and failures are shaped by uncontrollable forces, questioning free will.
- Saunders describes his writing process as a "mental health thing" that quiets his "monkey mind" and self-interrogating thoughts.
- He grew up in Oak Forest, south Chicago, with an eclectic reading background, later studying geophysical engineering before pursuing writing.
- After working in oil exploration, he developed his unique voice through writing short stories and teaching creative writing at Syracuse University.
- His marriage to novelist Paula Redick is a significant partnership, with them acting as each other's first readers and supporting each other's spiritual and creative growth.
- Saunders's Story Club Substack has gained a large following, fostering a community of thoughtful and generous discussion.
- He grapples with political discourse, finding fiction writing a better way to explore multiple perspectives and become less judgmental.
- Saunders aims to make characters, even antagonists like the one in "Vigil," understandable and complex rather than simply sympathetic.
- He believes improving thought and compassion through writing better equips him for any challenges, humorously adding advice about weightlifting and machine-gun turrets.
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