Episode 3
Prose and Politics — DC — Ross Andersen
Craig Mod in conversation with Ross Andersen at Prose and Politics in DC, chatting for fifty-nine minutes on May 07, 2025
Ross Andersen — editor and staff writer at The Atlantic — and Craig discuss Craig's new book that defies traditional genres. Initially thought to be a travelogue, the book turns out to be a profound grief memoir intertwined with reflections on American culture and philosophy of walking. Craig discusses the origins and structure of his book, which was inspired by a need for stillness prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic, his deep connection to Japan, and his long walks on its pilgrimage routes. Craig continues to describe his process of blending vivid travel experiences with meditative writing, the influence of Japanese cultural concepts such as impermanence, and his continuous effort to maintain creative rigor. The conversation also explores how different lengths of walks impact one's mental state, the importance of setting self-imposed deadlines, and the role of film photography in his creative work.
Guest Links
Chapters
- 00:00 — Introduction and Opening Remarks
- 00:30 — Introducing Craig Mod and His Book
- 01:24 — TBOT's Themes and Structure
- 02:37 — Craig's Writing Process and Inspirations
- 06:18 — Personal Reflections and Bryan's Story
- 11:23 — Craig's Journey to Japan
- 19:14 — Pilgrimages and Walking Experiences
- 26:59 — Philosophy of Walking and Meditation
- 28:34 — Meeting John McBride: A Life-Changing Connection
- 29:10 — Walking Pilgrimages
- 30:24 — Solo Walks and Vipassana Meditation
- 32:31 — The Profound Impact of Extended Walks
- 37:45 — Reflections on Daily Writing
- 42:37 — Embracing Impermanence and Japanese Traditions
- 45:48 — Rules and Practices for Meaningful Walks
- 50:16 — Balancing Work and Walking
- 55:08 — The Return to Film Photography
- 58:44 — Conclusion and Book Signing
Subscribe to the Podcast
Craig Mod is a writer and photographer based in Japan. He's the author of the books Things Become Other Things and Kissa by Kissa and is a MacDowell, Ragdale, and VCCA writing fellow. His essays and articles have appeared in The New York Times, Eater, The Atlantic, California Sunday Magazine, Wired, Aeon, New Scientist, Virginia Quarterly Review, The New Yorker, The Morning News, Codex: Journal of Typography, and elsewhere.
He writes newsletters, oh yes, newsletters: Roden & Ridgeline.
The work on this site is supported 100% by paid memberships and book & print sales.
Whatever you do, don't follow @craigmod on Bluesky or Instagram.