David Baddiel and Elif Shafak on Humour And Despair

Today, in a world full of uncertainties, it’s hard to know whether to laugh, or cry. Both humour and despair are deeply human reactions to the age we live in, especially to the politics of our times. But why is it that we turn to jokes in our darkest moments or continue to seek refuge in stories when we feel at our loneliest? And how are the two seemingly contradictory emotions of humour and melancholy connected? A podcast of a 5x15 evening in London with two eminent voices exploring our human condition. Elif Shafak is a Turkish-British novelist, essayist, academic, public speaker and women's rights activist, who has sold millions of novels worldwide. David Baddiel is a legendary comedian, best-selling writer and a leading commentator. 5x15 brings together outstanding individuals to tell of their lives, passions and inspirations. Learn more about 5x15 events: www.5x15stories.com Twitter: www.twitter.com/5x15stories Facebook: www.facebook.com/5x15stories Instagram: www.instagram.com/5x15stories