Nobel Prizes: 5 Unlikely Winner Reactions, From the Unbothered to the Downright Mad

The article highlights the diverse reactions of five unlikely Nobel Prize winners. While some were indifferent or even unaware of their accolade, others expressed strong emotions, ranging from annoyance to outrage. One laureate, Doris Lessing, was reportedly "very irritated" by the news, as she believed the Nobel Prize to be "a bit tosh." Another, Toni Morrison, initially thought the call from the Nobel Committee was a prank. In contrast, Daniel Kahneman remained unfazed, casually mentioning the award during a phone call. The article also recounts the story of Elfriede Jelinek, who refused to attend the Nobel ceremony, citing anxiety and discomfort with public events. Lastly, the piece describes the case of Dario Fo, an Italian playwright who was outraged by the decision, accusing the Nobel Committee of political bias. These varied reactions highlight the complex and sometimes unexpected ways in which individuals respond to the prestigious, yet often controversial, Nobel Prizes.