Julian Barnes, Secrets of Most French English Writers

LE FIGARO. – How did you overcome the health crisis of the last eighteen months?

Julian Barnes. – As a writer, I’m one of the lucky ones. We got used to being alone all day and our heads were completely occupied. It turns out that I started a new novel two months before the crisis started. I also do not live in a small apartment with three small children. So, on the surface, I did well. But I also think it had a profound effect on everyone. One day a stranger may spit in your face, and after two weeks the constant realization that you will die horribly – albeit on a supernatural level. I talked to friends about it and we all agree that we are somewhat social. The other problem is that you can not always feel anxious and scared – you feel that the crisis has stopped.