In this episode of A Phone Call From Paul, Paul Holdengraber talks to legendary writer Ursula K. Le Guin about the blurring of fact and fiction, the problem with celebrities, and the anxiety of influence.

Ursula K. Le Guin on writing for pleasure…

I feel rather guilty about this prose, because it’s a story I edited. It is a continuation of my last three fantasies, my gifts, voices, and powers… I always wanted to get into the background of that place, the western shore. I feel guilty because I think I’m writing it totally for my own entertainment and pleasure!

Ursula K. Le Guin on celebrity…

I don’t quite know how to put this, but we keep confusing achievement with celebrity. I am very uncomfortable with celebrity. I really hate it.