LW20: Chris Knapp

In this episode, we sit down with novelist Chris Knapp to discuss his debut novel, States of Emergency. Set against the sweltering backdrop of Paris in 2015, Knapp’s novel captures the fragility of a marriage and the existential weight of a world in crisis. We explore the origins of States of Emergency, delving into how Knapp masterfully intertwines personal and global turmoil, creating a narrative that speaks to both the intimate cracks in a relationship and the larger, looming uncertainties of our time.

Join us as we talk about his journey as a writer, from his experiences at MFA at the University of Virginia to his success in renowned publications like The Paris Review and Granta. Knapp also shares insights into his creative process, exploring the delicate balance between hope and despair, and how he captures the nuances of human connection amidst chaos.

We are in the midst of our first Platoon Book Club Initiative in which we are funding and facilitating platoon-sized book clubs for active duty and reserve platoons in every branch of the military. Click here to learn more.