Author Shalom Auslander discusses breaking away from family and the concept of 'Feh'. They explore how Feh has impacted human beings, especially Jews, for years, breaking the cycle, the misery caused by the nonstop news cycle, and the importance of self-discovery through writing.
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Quick takeaways
Feh, a Yiddish word, represents a life filled with imposed chaos on Jews.
Breaking family ties can be the key to breaking the cycle of Feh.
The continuous news cycle contributes significantly to collective misery.
Religious upbringing shapes individual perspectives and emotional landscapes.
Deep dives
Impact of Political Changes on Excitement and Hope
The podcast episode highlights the impact of political changes on the speaker's feelings of excitement and hope. With Biden dropping out of the race and Kamala Harris coming on board, there is a shift in the speaker's sentiment from despair to excitement, showcasing the dynamic nature of political events and the personal reactions they evoke.
Reflections on Family Dynamics and Aging
The speaker discusses personal reflections on family dynamics and aging, particularly focusing on the stubbornness and pride seen in elderly family members. The narrative delves into the complexities of relationships, demonstrating how age and dementia can influence behavior and attitudes, highlighting the challenges and emotional responses within familial interactions.
Navigating the Influence of Media and Technology
The podcast episode delves into the influence of media and technology on individual emotions and perspectives. The discussion underscores the overwhelming impact of information consumption, particularly through news feeds and social media platforms. It touches on themes of self-awareness, mental health, and the pervasive nature of technology in shaping modern perceptions and emotional responses.
Exploration of Cultural Norms and Self-Reflection
The episode explores cultural norms and self-reflection regarding religious upbringing and personal identity. The conversation delves into themes of shame, self-judgment, and the internalization of religious narratives, shaping individuals' perspectives and emotional landscapes. The importance of storytelling, critical thinking, and the quest for personal fulfillment amidst societal pressures are key focal points of the narrative.
Impact of External Influences on Creative Pursuits
The episode addresses the impact of external influences on creative pursuits and professional aspirations. It delves into the challenges of artistic endeavors in a competitive landscape and questions the meaning and purpose of creative work in a society driven by metrics of success and audience validation. The narrative touches upon personal struggles, creative authenticity, and the quest for artistic fulfillment amidst societal expectations and trends.
Reflections on Media Consumption and Emotional Responses
The podcast episode reflects on the consequences of media consumption on emotional responses and mental well-being. It discusses the interplay between news content, internet exposure, and individual reactions, highlighting the struggles of navigating a digital world filled with contrasting narratives and emotional triggers. The exploration underscores the importance of self-awareness and critical thinking in managing media influences and preserving emotional balance.
Writing and Creativity Challenges
The podcast episode delves into the challenges the speaker faces in finding their creative voice, narrating instances where attempts to fit into popular genres like disaster novels led to unexpected and unconventional storylines, highlighting how personal creativity may not align with mainstream preferences. The discussion extends to experiences with adapting the work into different formats like plays and movies, showcasing the complexities of navigating creative expression within entertainment industries.
Personal Reflections and Family Dynamics
The podcast reveals personal insights and family dynamics of the speaker, reflecting on the impact of religious upbringing and familial relationships. Emphasizing moments of introspection and self-critique, the speaker shares experiences of hypochondria, estranged family relationships, and the influence of Jewish upbringing on personal identity. The narrative weaves through themes of vulnerability, humor, and self-discovery, illustrating the complexity of personal growth and familial ties.
Shalom Auslander gave voice to something Marc was thinking for most of his life: That he’s been living in a world of Feh. What that Yiddish word means and why Shalom believes it’s an organizing idea that’s been forced on human beings, particularly Jews, for thousands of years is the subject of Shalom’s new book. Shalom and Marc talk about breaking the cycle of Feh, how Shalom did so by completely breaking away from his family, and why the nonstop news cycle is one of the biggest causes of collective misery.
