Full Breakdown
The Evolution of Susan Choi's Literary Journey
1/31/2026, 2:04:01 AM
Key Influences on Susan Choi's Writing
Susan Choi, an acclaimed author, reflects on her formative literary experiences that shaped her identity as a writer. In her childhood, she gravitated towards books featuring miniature worlds, such as Roald Dahl's *Charlie and the Chocolate Factory* and *Stuart Little* by E.B. White. These stories, filled with cleverness and charm, ignited her passion for reading. Choi also found inspiration in Mary Norton's *The Borrowers*, which depicted tiny people ingeniously navigating their environment.
As a teenager, Choi encountered Donald Barthelme's *Sixty Stories*, which profoundly impacted her understanding of literature. She describes Barthelme's work as mischievous and irreverent, opening her eyes to a broader artistic world. This experience was pivotal, as it marked a shift in her perception of storytelling and the possibilities within it.
The Impact of Multiracial Representation
A significant turning point in Choi's literary development occurred during her graduate studies when she read Sigrid Nunez’s short story *Chang*. This narrative featured a multiracial character, a rarity in the literature Choi had previously encountered. She acknowledges that her earlier writing often reflected a default whiteness, as she unconsciously assigned European-sounding names to her characters. Nunez's work challenged Choi's preconceived notions and inspired her to embrace her own multiracial identity in her writing.
Defining Moments in Choi's Literary Aspirations
Choi's aspiration to become a writer was influenced by various texts, but she identifies Virginia Woolf's *To the Lighthouse* as a key work that shaped her literary ambitions. The desire to emulate Woolf's style led to a prolonged period of self-critique in her writing. Additionally, Choi's relationship with F. Scott Fitzgerald's *The Great Gatsby* evolved over time; she initially disliked it but later found comfort in its familiarity, likening it to a beloved comfort food.
Rediscovering Classic Literature
Choi's literary journey includes a late appreciation for Charles Dickens, whom she initially associated with holiday television specials. It wasn't until the pandemic that she read *Bleak House*, describing it as one of her most enriching reading experiences. This newfound enthusiasm for Dickens reflects her evolving literary tastes and the transformative power of literature.
Current Literary Engagements
In her ongoing exploration of literature, Choi recently completed J.A. Baker’s *The Peregrine*, which she describes as extraordinary and immersive. This book has captivated her, showcasing her continued engagement with diverse and transformative narratives.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It may sound corny but these stories made me grasp the existence of a world of art and literature.” — Susan Choi, Author
- “When I read Sigrid’s story I was astonished that the narrator was the daughter of a white European woman and a brown Asian man – just like me!” — Susan Choi, Author
- “I read Bleak House for the first time during the pandemic – it was one of the great reading experiences of my life.” — Susan Choi, Author
Through her reflections, Susan Choi illustrates the profound impact that literature has had on her identity and writing, highlighting the importance of representation and the evolving nature of literary appreciation.
