This is a spirited discussion full of recommendations aplenty, and no spoilers. Shruti reflects on what makes a novel a novel, what inspires her about Kathak and stories of the Mahabharata, what it means to create a culture and honor existing ones, and so much more. It combines the agrarian with the scientific, bleakness with hope, and is one of the most unique books we’ve covered on this podcast. This fictional ethnography of the postapocalyptic Kesh people combines anthropology, poetry, prose, linguistics, and numerous other genres to paint a portrait of this new society. Always Coming Home, considered the culmination of Le Guin’s cultural musings and varied influences, is by no means an easy read. Shruti, a longtime Ursula Le Guin fan, brings to the table a recent read as a new favorite book. It boldly declares that art is not only a calling, but one that must be heard. With rich prose and loving interpretations of pure dance, we are transported to an India of yesterday, distinctly specific in its detail. Vidya, who wishes to devote her life to the classical Indian dance, must eke out an honest existence for herself as family, teachers, friends, and many others cast doubt along the way. What does it mean to pursue art as a woman, especially when society imposes rigid goals and obstacles never cease to block the path forward? Shruti Swamy explores this in her detailed character study of a young Kathak dancer. This week’s guest is Shruti Swamy, author of debut novel The Archer.
Far less preachy than 1974's The Dispossessed, this is equally intelligent and ambitious. Malavika Praseed, frequent CHIRB contributor and podcast host, seeks to talk to readers and writers about the books that light a fire inside them. Le Guin RELEASE DATE: MaLeGuin here focuses her inimitable world-building skills on two conflicting societies of the futureimplying, of course, their relevance to the present.
Welcome to another installment of a collaboration between the Chicago Review of Books and the Your Favorite Book podcast.
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