In 2008 Eleanor Coppola published her book ‘Notes on a Life’. It did well, though was received with mixed reviews; some people were curious about the life of a Coppola, others about art and relationships, while others understood that a woman’s world is that – a woman’s world – and the challenges that women face, in all walks of life, have many overlapping similarities. As an artist as well as a wife and mother, Eleanor knew first-hand of the trials, the fears and the courage it takes to share your work and your voice with others.

At that time I was still producing ‘Living with Literature’, radio programs of conversations with writers, teachers and thinkers for radio broadcast on KWMR.org. Eleanor the artist, Ellie the friend, and I sat down for a conversation about her book, her life and her quiet observations, that become notes to be shared. 

Eleanor Coppola left us in April of 2024 but listening back to this conversation from 2008 it is wonderful hear the energy in her voice, the understanding in her mind and the compassion in her heart – for they remain with us.

Muriel – Aggie – Murch

And always overseen by – beatrice @ murchstudio.com

Solitude op 127 #2 is from Piano Music of Cécile Chaminade played by Peter Jacobs.