SHOP TALK WITH WRITERS

Keywordsdystopian fiction, telepathy, Songlight, Torch Trilogy, character development, creative writing, Moira Buffini, storytelling, female empowerment, world-buildingSummaryIn this wide-ranging conversation, acclaimed novelist, playwright and screenwriter Moira Buffini discusses her dystopian trilogy, the Torch Trilogy, which explores themes of telepathy, connection, and the struggles of young women against oppressive regimes. The dialogue delves into Buffini's creative process, her transition from playwriting to novel writing, and the intricate character development that brings her world to life. The discussion also highlights the moral complexities of her characters, particularly the antagonists, and the overarching themes of communication and empowerment in her storytelling.TakeawaysThe world of Songlight is set thousands of years in the future.Buffini's writing is influenced by her background in playwriting.The trilogy explores themes of telepathy and connection.Character development is central to the storytelling process.Buffini aims to write stories that resonate with her heart.The intimacy of novel writing differs from playwriting.Buffini's characters are often named for their traits or roles.The antagonist, Zara Swan, is a complex character shaped by trauma.The trilogy emphasizes the power of young women standing together.Buffini believes in the importance of intuitive communication. TitlesExploring the Dystopian World of SonglightThe Creative Journey of Moira BuffiniSound bites"This is my heart song.""Song is a central human thing.""I keep going back to writing."Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Dystopian World of Songlight07:58 The Creative Process Behind the Torch Trilogy15:30 The Transition from Playwriting to Novel Writing21:05 Character Development and Perspectives30:54 Themes of Connection and Communication39:24 Complex Antagonists and Moral Ambiguity

SummaryIn this conversation with host Elena Lappin, Gary Gulman discusses his memoir 'Misfit', reflecting on his journey as a writer and comedian. He shares insights into the writing process, the importance of storytelling, and the influence of teachers and mentors in his life. The discussion also explores the adaptation of his memoir into a stand-up show, the challenges of writing about personal experiences, and his aspirations for future writing projects.Keywordsmemoir, storytelling, comedy, writing process, adaptation, character voices, teachers, personal growth, future aspirations, Gary GulmanTakeawaysGary's storytelling ability was recognized by a professor early on.Writing projects in school were a refuge for Gary.Humour can be a coping mechanism for deeper emotions.The process of adapting a memoir into a stand-up show is complex.Character voices in writing can bring realism to the narrative.Teachers can have a profound impact on a student's life.Writing requires discipline and practice to improve.The memoir reflects a blend of vulnerability and humour.Gary's relationship with his mother influenced his writing.Future writing aspirations include exploring fiction.TitlesThe Art of Storytelling with Gary GulmanMisfit: A Journey Through Comedy and WritingChapters00:00 The Journey to Storytelling05:40 Exploring Misfit: A Memoir10:47 The Art of Adaptation: From Page to Stage16:50 Character Voices and Realism in Writing22:50 The Impact of Teachers and Mentors32:20 Writing Process and Personal Reflections38:15 Future Aspirations: Novels and Beyond

Show Notes/SummaryIn this episode, host Elena Lappin welcomes novelist and international book blogger Ann Morgan to discuss her thought-provoking new book, Relearning to Read: Adventures in Not Knowing. The conversation delves into the transformative power of reading and the importance of humility and openness when encountering unfamiliar narratives. Morgan shares her personal journey of unlearning traditional reading habits shaped by academic expectations and the liberating experience of engaging with literature from diverse cultures. Through anecdotes from her time volunteering with the Samaritans and her encounters with extraordinary individuals, she illustrates the profound connection between reading and understanding others' stories. This episode invites listeners to embrace the adventure of reading with curiosity and an open mind.KeywordsShop Talk With Writers, Ann Morgan, Relearning To Read, Adventures In Not Knowing, International Literature, Samaritans, Emotional Support, Reading Experience, Curiosity In Reading, Children's Literature, Graphic Novels, Literary Analysis, Writing Process, Cultural Perspectives, Literary Traditions, Book Blogging, Cross-Cultural Reading, Humility In Reading, Reader-Writer Collaboration, Creative WritingTakeawaysReading requires humility and openness to different perspectives.Volunteering can reshape one's understanding of narratives.Children's reading habits reflect a natural acceptance of stories.Relearning to read involves embracing childlike wonder.Education can impose restrictive reading frameworks.Gender dynamics affect academic performance in reading and writing.Creative interpretation is essential in understanding literature.Digital reading influences reader engagement and collaboration.Curiosity fosters deeper connections with diverse cultures.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest01:16 Exploring the Concept of Reading03:45 The Impact of Volunteering on Reading Perspectives06:04 Childhood Experiences and Early Writing09:04 The Influence of Children’s Reading Habits10:58 Relearning to Read with Childlike Wonder12:17 The Role of Education in Shaping Reading15:13 Gender Dynamics in Academic Reading and Writing19:03 The Art of Creative Interpretation in Reading22:23 Openness in Reading and Understanding Different Cultures27:03 Reading from Diverse Global Perspectives30:04 The Writer's Freedom and Boldness in Storytelling31:36 The Collaborative Nature of Reading and Writing34:57 The Influence of Digital Reading on Reader Experience38:34 The Universality of Literature and Reader Engagement44:54 Personal Stories and Connections Through Literature50:32 Curiosity and Learning from Others52:13 Current Projects and Future EndeavorsKeywordsunderstanding, validation, academic success, personal growth, reading, cultural opennessTakeawaysReading international literature was an incredibly formative experience.In school and academia, I became very fixated on this idea of needing to be right.It laid the groundwork for some pretty troubling reading.Understanding everything became a personal obsession.Academic success can lead to troubling patterns in thinking.The pressure to excel can hinder genuine learning.Struggles in one subject can overshadow strengths in another.Personal growth is often tied to our academic experiences.Reading is an adventure in learning what we don't know

SummaryHost Elena Lappin interviews acclaimed novelist Ben Markovits about his Booker-shortlisted novel THE REST OF OUR LIVES. Tom's wife Amy had an affair many years ago, and now that their youngest daughter is leaving home, Tom is supposedly ready to end his marriage. But will he? Markovits talks about the complexities of navigating middle age, focusing on the narrowing options individuals face as they grow older. It explores the idea of self-experimentation and the potential for personal growth, while also addressing the emotional challenges of leaving behind a previous life. The discussion highlights the tension between the desire for change and the reality of established life paths.Keywordsmiddle age, life choices, parenthood, self-experimentation, happiness, personal growth, life course, change, identity, marriage, infidelityTakeawaysOne of the problems with middle age is the illusion of choices.As you get older, the options narrow significantly.People often struggle with the idea of their life course being set.Self-experimentation can lead to unexpected happiness.You can do almost anything to yourself and still find joy.The heart of Tom's predicament lies in his sense of possibility.Embracing change is essential for personal growth.Betraying the past can be a part of moving forward.Middle age brings a unique set of challenges and opportunities.Understanding one's capacity for change is crucial.Sound bites"The options narrow as you get older.""It might not even make you unhappy.""Experimentation can lead to happiness."

KeywordsCharlotte Mendelson, Wife, lesbian marriage, relationships, narcissism, family dynamics, literature, emotional complexity, storytelling, character development, contemporary fictionEpisode SummaryIn this episode of Shop Talk with Writers, bestselling novelist Charlotte Mendelson discusses her latest novel, WIFE, which intricately explores the dynamics of a lesbian marriage between Zoe and Penny. Through a reading from the book, Mendelson delves into the complexities of their relationship, the themes of desire, control, and the impact of narcissism. The conversation also touches on the inspiration behind the novel, the portrayal of lesbian relationships in literature, and the challenges of writing about intimate subjects. Mendelson's sharp wit and insightful observations provide a rich exploration of personal and family relationships, making this episode a compelling listen for fans of contemporary literature.TakeawaysCharlotte Mendelson's 'Wife' explores the intricacies of a lesbian marriage.The novel is structured around two timelines: a 20-year relationship and its final day.Zoe, the protagonist, embodies a nurturing spirit contrasted with Penny's assertiveness.Mendelson aims to depict the complexities of desire and control in relationships.The book addresses the theme of narcissism and its impact on personal relationships.Mendelson's writing reflects her experiences and observations of family dynamics.The portrayal of lesbian relationships in literature is evolving, yet still faces stereotypes.Mendelson emphasizes the importance of authenticity in storytelling.The challenges of writing about intimate subjects are significant for authors.Gardening serves as a metaphor for personal growth and emotional complexity in Mendelson's work.TitlesUnpacking 'Wife': A Deep Dive into RelationshipsCharlotte Mendelson on Love, Loss, and LiteratureChapters00:00 Exploring 'Wife': A Reading from the Novel05:48 Character Dynamics: Zoe and Penny's Relationship20:12 The Complexity of Desire and Control29:22 Narcissism in Relationships: A Deeper Look43:54 The Inspiration Behind 'Wife' and Its Themes

SummaryIn this episode of Shop Talk with Writers, host Elena Lapin engages with Armand Dungour, a professor of classics, to explore the themes of love as presented in Plato's Symposium. D'Angour discusses the historical context of the text, the various perspectives on love presented by its speakers, and the philosophical implications of Socrates' teachings. The conversation delves into the relevance of these ancient ideas in modern times, emphasizing the importance of understanding love's complexities and the influence of historical figures like Socrates and Diotima. D'Angour also shares insights into his own work and passion for making classical texts accessible to contemporary audiences.TakeawaysThe Symposium presents multiple viewpoints on love through its characters.Socrates' teachings on love are influenced by his relationship with Diotima.Love is portrayed as a harmonizing force in both personal and societal contexts.The dialogue emphasizes the importance of true love over mere physical attraction.Understanding love requires recognizing its complexities and nuances.Plato's work remains relevant in modern discussions about love and relationships.The concept of platonic love is rooted in Socratic philosophy.Armand D'Angour aims to make classical texts accessible to modern readers.The historical context of the Symposium enriches its themes of love.Music and literature are intertwined in the exploration of ancient ideas. KeywordsPlato, Symposium, love, ancient texts, Socrates, Diotima, modern lovers, philosophy, classics, Armand D'AngourTitlesUnraveling Love: Insights from Plato's SymposiumSocrates and Diotima: The Philosophical Foundations of LoveSound bites"An ancient guide for modern lovers.""Love inspires creation.""What matters is who you love."Chapters00:00 Exploring the Concept of Love in Ancient Texts19:55 The Influence of Socrates and Diotima39:05 Diverse Perspectives on Love: The Symposium's Speakers47:45 Socrates and the Nature of True Love01:04:43 Bridging Ancient and Modern Understandings of Love