The New Yorker: The Writer's Voice - New Fiction from The New Yorker cover image

The New Yorker: The Writer's Voice - New Fiction from The New Yorker

Sigrid Nunez Reads “Greensleeves”

Sep 2, 2024
Sigrid Nunez, an acclaimed author and National Book Award winner, reads her poignant story “Greensleeves.” The narrative captures a woman's emotional journey during a therapy session, exploring the struggle with destructive self-talk. It also delves into profound themes of mental health through a therapist's encounter at a social gathering and the complexities of familial love against the backdrop of mental illness. Nunez beautifully intertwines music and memory, revealing the deep cultural significance of 'Greensleeves' and its lasting impact.
36:00

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The story explores the conflicting nature of intrusive negative thoughts, contrasting the harsh self-criticism with the therapist’s understanding of varied mental health experiences.
  • The narrative highlights societal stigma surrounding mental illness through a social gathering discussion, examining the implications of language and cultural sensitivity in these conversations.

Deep dives

Struggles with Negative Thoughts

The story delves into the distressing experience of a woman grappling with intrusive negative voices in her mind. She questions why these voices perpetuate harmful and critical messages instead of offering reassurance and positivity. Her frustration with the harshness of these voices contrasts with the therapist’s understanding that such experiences can vary greatly, sometimes presenting as neutral or even benign. This juxtaposition highlights the complexities of mental health and raises broader questions about the nature of internal dialogue and its impact on one’s well-being.

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