Bill Bryson at 74: Embracing Curiosity and Upcoming Singapore Shows

“Everything in the world is fascinating if you take the time to examine it,” shares Bill Bryson, the acclaimed American-British journalist and author, during our brief video call.

His words resonate deeply; his career has been defined by an unyielding curiosity.

Bryson is widely recognized for his 2003 work, A Short History Of Nearly Everything, which is often regarded as the definitive popular science book of the 21st century.

The book consists of self-contained chapters, exploring significant scientific fields, from the universe’s origins to atomic structures.

What differentiates it from similar works is Bryson’s conversational style, infused with a sense of wonder that belies his years.

Now at 74, he shows no signs of slowing down.

His latest release, A Short History Of Nearly Everything 2.0, debuted on October 21, presenting a thoroughly revised edition that incorporates scientific advancements from the past two decades, including Pluto’s reclassification.

Readers, both old and new, can expect his signature humor and insights, extended into the realm of live performances.

As part of his book tour, Bryson will host two shows in Singapore on February 4 and 5 at Capitol Theatre, where he shares anecdotes about the scientists behind key discoveries, often highlighting their eccentricities.

Those who have attended his talks say they reflect the same dry humor and keen observations found in his writing, suggesting that his curiosity about life could provide a roadmap for others.

ON STAYING CURIOUS

During our discussion, I asked Bryson how one can nurture curiosity in today’s age of instant gratification.

With artificial intelligence offering nearly instantaneous answers, the accuracy of responses often seems unimportant.

What truly matters is how this convenience removes the challenges that usually spark deeper inquiries.

This friction, I posited, is essential for fostering curiosity.

Bryson seemed taken aback but ultimately confessed that he too doesn’t have a clear answer. After all, questioning the status quo is woven into his very essence.

His fascination with life remains untainted. Even the simple act of observing food packaging in a café can be “quite intriguing,” he chuckled.

Walking remains Bryson’s preferred way to explore the world. It compels him to notice details often overlooked in a car or on a bicycle.

Upon arriving in Singapore, he plans to revisit memories from his first visit, particularly enjoying the spacious sidewalks and the Botanic Gardens, which left a lasting impression during a brief stopover in 2019.

In unfamiliar settings, he embraces minimal planning, relishing the thrill of deciding which way to turn at a crossroads.

“I prefer to come into a city without prior knowledge,” he remarked. “The joy of discovering something new feels like being the first to ever encounter it.”

However, he insists that these walks should be free of distractions.

“Today, everyone is plugged into music, missing the sounds of nature and life around them. That’s a significant loss. We should experience our surroundings in full,” he emphasized.

PERKS OF BEING A GENERALIST

While some argue that curiosity can’t be taught, Bryson seeks to cultivate an awareness of both the external world and inner life—a theme that resonates throughout his works.

In A Short History Of Nearly Everything, he queries not just the knowledge we hold but the methodology behind it, making it a reflection on curiosity itself.

“How does one determine the Earth’s weight? Scientists often overlook the wonder behind such discoveries,” he stated.

“The fact that we exist, with all our atoms and molecules cooperating to allow us to be here—it’s something that most take for granted. Yet your existence is a genuine miracle.”

It’s no surprise he revels in being a generalist; his broad interests contribute to his ever-renewed sense of amazement.

“As a journalist, my work often required chameleon-like adaptability, diving into unfamiliar topics for each assignment, which proved advantageous,” he commented.

“Approaching a topic as a novice grants a unique ability to marvel at every bit of new information, while deeper familiarity can lead to complacency.”

Bryson embraces this lack of specialization, appreciating those who dedicate themselves to specific fields.

“A Short History Of Nearly Everything aims to help readers appreciate the contributions of scientists. I could never write a science textbook; even a decade of study wouldn’t equip me for that. I’m simply a generalist at heart,” he remarked.

“I admire those who become geologists or cosmologists; we need them, but that path isn’t for me.”

Yet, despite being a jack of all trades, Bryson excels in his field. He has sold over 15 million copies of more than 20 non-fiction titles covering diverse topics like travel, biology, and linguistics.

His writing transforms complex subjects into enjoyable reads, an ability refined during times when science felt painfully dry.

HUMOUR AS WORLDVIEW

Growing up in Des Moines, Iowa during the 1950s, Bryson found the teaching of science in American schools to be uninspiring, lacking the excitement that could engage students.

“I always thought there must be ways for people like me—those not pursuing a scientific career—to engage with science. It holds the key to understanding our origins and destiny,” he reflected.

A Short History Of Nearly Everything was designed to be enjoyable rather than instructional, with humor woven in as a means to reflect his inherent wonder about the world.

“While the book aims to present reliable facts, I like to infuse wry observations. Life encompasses a great deal of absurdity and marvel,” he noted.

Bryson remarked that the challenging realities of today amplify the necessity of humor—not as a means of denial, but as a strategy for encountering weighty issues with a lighter heart.

Ultimately, Bryson remains deeply connected to what makes us human. His relentless curiosity drives him to look beyond mere observation, urging us all to truly see.