The United States is a nation in worrisome decline. Escalating divisions drive intensifying violence, longstanding institutions are unraveling, and the fabric of democracy is being torn apart at the seams by tyranny—and, in the midst of it all, writers continue to write essential works of fiction, as they have done throughout every era of political chaos and upheaval. What does it mean to create art while grappling with the realities of socio-economic ruptures, horrific acts of authoritarianism, and climate catastrophe? American authors Jess Walter, Curtis Sittenfeld, Anne de Marcken, and Leila Mottley join us for a roundtable discussion lead by longtime Festival friend, author, and editor John Freeman.