In this episode of Sick Sad Lit, author Anna Dorn joins me to discuss her novel Perfume and Pain, a sharp and provocative exploration of identity, desire, and self-destruction. Anna opens up about her writing process, and her transition from a legal career to full-time novelist.

We dive into the literary value of unlikeable women in fiction, the cultural tension around cancel culture, and how queer literature allows space for complex, messy, fully human protagonists. Anna also shares her thoughts on the evolving business of writing — from the emotional toll of professional publishing to the power of author merch and literary events in building a community around books.

The conversation touches on perfume as a narrative device, how creative inspiration comes from unexpected places (including music and social media), and why embracing vulnerability in storytelling is more radical than ever.

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Takeaways:

• Anna Dorn transitioned from law to writing, driven by her passion for storytelling.
• Her background in law influences her writing style and character development.
• Perfume plays a significant role in her latest novel, symbolizing desire and identity.
• The importance of author merchandise in connecting with readers.
• Literary events are crucial for networking and community building among writers.
• Unlikable characters often reflect societal frustrations and personal struggles.
• Writing is a deeply personal process, often influenced by lived experiences.
• Creative inspiration comes from various sources, including music and social media.
• The evolution of writing as a profession can lead to insecurity and pressure.
• Exploring diverse settings and characters in fiction can enrich storytelling.

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