Zadie Smith Explores Identity and Power in New Essay Collection

Zadie Smith continues to assert her place in contemporary literature with the release of her latest essay collection, Dead and Alive, published on November 11, 2025, by Hamish Hamilton. This marks her fourth book of essays, following Changing My Mind (2009), Feel Free (2018), and the pandemic-inspired Intimations (2020). With a cover price of £22.00, the new collection delves into a range of topics, from art criticism to reflections on identity and the socio-political landscape.

Smith, who first gained widespread acclaim with her debut novel White Teeth in 2000, has consistently demonstrated her ability to engage with complex themes. In Dead and Alive, she tackles subjects such as the impact of social media, the nuances of black history, and the legacy of influential figures like Joan Didion and Toni Morrison. Despite the varied topics, a thread of commonality runs throughout the essays, focusing on the interrelated themes of identity, power, and the passage of time.

One of the standout pieces in the collection is titled “Fascinated to Presume: In Defence of Fiction.” Here, Smith articulates her belief that effective fiction should evoke a sense of authenticity, suggesting that readers should feel that the narrative “really happened.” She introspects on her own novels, questioning whether her characters resonate with readers amidst their distinct life experiences.

This ability to convey empathy is a hallmark of Smith’s writing. Unlike many authors, she skillfully creates characters that transcend her own experiences. For instance, in White Teeth, characters like Samad Iqbal and Archie Jones, who are significantly older and come from vastly different backgrounds, are rendered believable and relatable. Smith’s approach allows her to share her imagined emotions, enriching her characters without losing their individuality.

Throughout the essays, Smith underscores the necessity of genuine representation in literature and history. Reflecting on her childhood in London during the 1980s, she recalls a time when black women authors were virtually invisible in mainstream media and education. This lack of representation motivated her to seek out works by writers like Morrison and Gretchen Gerzina, which in turn inspired her to contribute to a more inclusive literary landscape.

In addressing the complexities of societal representation, Smith emphasizes that history should not be segmented into exclusive narratives. She argues that dividing people into rigid categories is a tactic employed by authoritarian regimes. This perspective is particularly relevant as she advocates for a more universal approach to storytelling in both fiction and historical discourse.

As Smith reaches her milestone of turning fifty this year, a sense of mid-life reflection permeates her essays. In “Some Notes on Mediated Time,” she critiques how modern technology and social media affect our perception of time and storytelling. By contrasting contemporary media with the narrative-driven television of her youth, she argues that the commodification of time has detrimental effects on our collective experiences.

While Smith’s political insights are sharp, her engagement with traditional party politics is less pronounced. Her essays addressing political topics, including a critical commentary on Donald Trump‘s Gaza plan, provide a nuanced exploration of power dynamics. In her analysis, she draws parallels between historical and contemporary struggles, highlighting the ongoing plight of marginalized communities.

The literary essays in Dead and Alive showcase Smith’s deep appreciation for literature and its impact. In a touching tribute section titled “Mourning,” she reflects on the contributions of late literary figures such as Didion, Morrison, and Martin Amis. Her ability to encapsulate an author’s work in a concise manner speaks to her prowess as a critic.

Despite the overall strength of the collection, some longer essays may feel less impactful, with moments where Smith resorts to familiar platitudes. Nevertheless, Dead and Alive remains a testament to her intellectual curiosity and passion for literature, solidifying her reputation as one of the leading voices in contemporary writing.

With this latest collection, Zadie Smith not only reflects on her personal journey but also invites readers to consider broader societal issues. As she continues to navigate the intersections of identity, power, and representation, her voice remains essential in today’s literary landscape.