A group of respected authors gathered to celebrate the influential work of Jane Austen, marking the 250th anniversary of her birth. The event took place at New York’s 92nd Street Y, where writer Alexandra Schwartz from The New Yorker hosted a panel discussion featuring well-known literary figures like Jennifer Egan, Kevin Kwan, Helen Fielding, and Vivian Gornick.
During the conversation, the authors explored how Austen’s writing has continued to impact their own work and broader popular culture. Helen Fielding, in particular, spoke highly of Austen, referring to her as her “hero.” Fielding’s own novel, Bridget Jones’s Diary, draws inspiration from Austen’s beloved Pride and Prejudice, showcasing the timeless nature of Austen’s themes.
Kevin Kwan shared his personal journey of discovering Austen’s work at the age of 15. He described reading her novels, including Sense and Sensibility and Mansfield Park, as a transformative experience. Kwan noted that he felt a deep connection between the female characters in Austen’s stories and the women in his own life, particularly the aunts he grew up with in Singapore.
Jennifer Egan and Vivian Gornick also expressed their admiration for Austen. Egan revealed she is currently working on a detective novel inspired by the mystery elements found in Austen’s Emma. Gornick emphasized Austen’s unique portrayal of men and women, recognizing her ability to provide different perspectives in her narratives.
Fielding reflected on the influence Austen had on her understanding of female characters. She highlighted how Austen’s protagonists often grapple with issues of power and independence, illustrating that they had the agency to refuse marriage proposals. Fielding praised Austen for choosing to pursue writing over marriage, describing her as not only an influential author but also a feminist icon who used humor and irony to convey her messages.
Austen, who lived in the 18th century, is celebrated as one of the period’s finest writers. Her novels, published anonymously during her lifetime, remain influential even today. Fielding and her fellow panelists noted their continued relevance, with Egan stating that Austen’s works feel remarkably contemporary.
The event concluded with a performance of a dramatic reading from Pride and Prejudice by actors Emily Mortimer and Alessandro Nivola, further highlighting Austen’s lasting impact on literature and culture.
