Episode Title: Thirst for Salt

Podcast: Between The Lines

Hosts: Leanne Tran and Chelle Griffin

Guest: Madeline Lucas

Episode Summary:

In this episode of "Between The Lines," hosts Leanne Tran and Chelle Griffin are joined by debut novelist Madeline Lucas to discuss her book "Thirst for Salt." Madeline, born in Melbourne and raised in Sydney, shares her journey from writing short stories to crafting her first novel, which centers on a young woman's complex relationship with an older man, Jude. The novel explores themes of love, grief, and the mother-daughter dynamic. Madeline emphasizes intimacy and anonymity in her narrative choices, aiming to create a deep connection with readers. She also discusses the challenges and joys of teaching creative writing and her future writing projects.

Key Discussion Points:

• Introduction and Background of Madeline Lucas: Leanne introduces Madeline, highlighting her background in visual arts, music, and her MFA in fiction from Columbia University. Madeline lives in Brooklyn with her family and is a senior editor at The Literary Review of Books.

• Madeline's Writing Journey: Madeline shares her excitement about meeting readers and discusses how "Thirst for Salt" is the culmination of years of writing and thinking about its themes, influenced by her artistic family background.

• Development of "Thirst for Salt": Madeline explains that the characters originated from a short story and evolved into a novel. She discusses the transition from short stories to a novel, emphasizing the freedom found in the writing process.

• Themes and Reflections on Motherhood: The conversation explores the significance of the mother-daughter relationship in the book, with Madeline reflecting on balancing ambition, career, and motherhood.

• Narrative Structure and Reader Engagement: Madeline discusses the decision to keep the narrator unnamed to enhance intimacy and reader engagement, avoiding artificial barriers.

• Reflective Narrative and Emotional Impact: The hosts praise the reflective narrative style and its ability to evoke personal stories and emotions, with Madeline highlighting the book's strong sense of place.

• Mother-Daughter Dynamics and Relationship Tensions: The discussion delves into the complex mother-daughter relationship and the natural evolution of the parent-child dynamic.

• Teaching and Mentoring Emerging Writers: Madeline shares her experience teaching creative writing, emphasizing the importance of creating a safe space and mentoring diverse voices.

• Future Plans and Writing Process: Madeline mentions her plans to return to teaching and writing, developing new characters and ideas for her next novel.

Closing Remarks and Gratitude:

The hosts express gratitude for Madeline's participation and the thoughtful conversation. Madeline thanks the hosts for their insightful questions and the opportunity to engage with readers, concluding with well-wishes for her future endeavors.