The God Setebos

In this episode, Hans, Chris, and I discuss the classic of British Literature, Jane Eyre.

Hans, Chris, and I take a look at a strange work of fiction called a "diptych" by it's author. The book is split into two parts that don't have any plot connections, except that maybe they feature the same main character. Instead of plot unity, the book features thematic unity, as well as some very clever and humorous writing.

In this episode, Hans, Chris, and I discuss a super interesting novel that examines ordinary people's pettiness in the face of suffering.

In this episode, Hans, Chris, and I discuss Flannery O'Connor's short novel Wiseblood, in which WWII veteran Hazel Motes comes home to preach the gospel of the Church of Jesus Christ Without Christ.

In this episode, Hans, Chris, and I discuss John Steinbeck's East of Eden, a generational novel that uses the Cain and Abel story as an allegory to discuss familial love and duty.

In this episode, Chris, Hans, and I discuss a strange, puzzling novel called The Golem. It's about a guy who mistakenly puts on another man's hat and then dreams the other man's life. There's also maybe a golem stalking the Jewish ghetto.

In this episode, Hans, Chris, and I discuss two sci-fi short stories collections, both by Ted Chiang. We touch on a number of topics, including determinism, stories as thought experiments, and the craft of using first-person narration to drive character.

In this episode, Hans, Chris, and I discuss the quite massive Pynchon novel Against the Day. At times hilarious, at times confusing, this novel is definitely an experience.

In this episode, Chris, Hans, and I discuss a really fantastic novel about trans experience, Small Beauty. With a very quiet tone, the novel explores the life of Mei, a Chinese-Canadian trans woman, in the aftermath of a family death.

In this interview, Hans and I chat with Adi Callai, author of XDB's newest publication, The Sodomites.