Martha, Martha - Zadie Smith - Literary Roadhouse Ep 96

Discussion Notes: Martha, Martha

Find this week’s story here: Martha, Martha by Zadie Smith.

Next week’s story: Kilifi Creek by Lionel Shriver.

Rated: Clean

The week, Gerald, Maya, Rammy, and Anais discuss Martha, Martha by Zadie Smith, a story which left everyone but Maya initially underwhelmed. While all the hosts agreed that the prose and the characterizations deserved praise, the plot left some guests wanting. However, it turned out that the story served up excellent fodder for discussion. Themes of racism, immigration, and culture underscore every interaction in the short story, drawing a poignant picture of what it means to arrive in America and strive.

This podcast also features the most divisive game of 20 questions you’ve ever heard. Don’t worry, we’re all still friends.

Did we miss a crucial piece of this story? Tell us below!

Also, don’t forget to rate the story! For the history of our goofy system, see Anais’ post “Read Short Stories or Ray Bradbury Cries.” On a scale of 1-6 Bradberries, how do you rate this story? Tell us in the comments below or via voicemail.

Lastly, your reviews on iTunes help us grow. Please search Literary Roadhouse in iTunes and leave reviews for all of our shows.