JAMIE FORD

The PURE Theatre Podcast

Exploring the Power of Storytelling and Cultural History with Jamie Ford

In this fascinating conversation, renowned author, Jamie Ford, delves into the power of storytelling and its role in fostering empathy and meaningful dialogue. The discussion revolves around Ford's novel 'The Many Daughters of Afong Moy,' which details the epic saga and generational trauma tied to the first Chinese lady who arrived in the U.S. in 1834. Ford emphasizes the importance of historical narratives in creating awareness, understanding, and empathy for experiences that are often overlooked. He also vividly expresses the transformative potential of art injected into society. Ford explains his creative process, which he refers to as being in the 'compassion creation business,' and reveals that his book has been optioned by Jenna Bush's company for an upcoming series. He expresses optimism about the impacts of streaming media, cultural cross-pollination, and diversification in storytelling.

00:06 Introduction: The Compassion Creation Business
00:44 Exploring the Life of Afong Moy
01:23 The Role of Dialogue in Deepening Historical Understanding
01:41 Interview with Jamie Ford: The Author Behind 'The Many Daughters of Afong Moy'
02:20 The Art of Storytelling and Generational Trauma
08:57 The Power of Art in Society
10:00 The Writing Process: From Inspiration to Creation
15:38 The Journey from Novel to Screen: 'The Many Daughters of Afong Moy'
25:29 The Influence of Location on Writing
28:24 Conclusion: The Impact of Storytelling