Jennifer Egan, renowned author of the Pulitzer Prize-winning "A Visit from the Goon Squad," joins to explore Margaret Atwood's 1990 story, "Kat." They delve into themes of identity, examining Kat's post-surgery emotional journey and struggles between societal expectations and personal dreams. Discussions pivot to gender dynamics, reflecting on evolving cultural perceptions of women. The conversation also unpacks the intertwining of violence, desire, and fashion, inviting deeper contemplation of beauty and transformation in Atwood's enduring literary legacy.
Jennifer Egan highlights how revisiting Margaret Atwood's 'Cat' reveals shifting perspectives on female identity and societal expectations over time.
Egan's admiration for Atwood reflects the profound impact literature can have on personal development and self-perception during formative years.
The discussion on gender dynamics in 'Cat' underscores the persistence of male authority in storytelling, resonating with contemporary gender discussions.
Deep dives
Exploration of Margaret Atwood's Story
The episode features a discussion on the story 'Cat' by Margaret Atwood, emphasizing its relevance as both a cultural and personal artifact. The choice of the story arises from Jennifer Egan's desire to revisit a narrative that resonated with her in her youth, highlighting the shifting perspectives individuals experience as they age. Specifically, Egan reflects on how the narrative of an older woman making 'wrong decisions' transforms into one about a young woman contemplating her future. This change underscores the evolution of both personal identity and societal expectations over time.
The Personal Connection to Atwood's Work
Jennifer Egan recalls her initial experience with Atwood's work, noting how it impacted her as a young woman in her twenties. The conversation reveals a deep admiration for Atwood, who represented a literary icon during Egan's formative years. This connection adds layers to Egan’s interpretation of 'Cat,' as it brings personal history into the analysis, demonstrating how literature can influence one’s life choices and self-perception. Egan's emotional response to Atwood’s storytelling highlights the enduring power of fiction in shaping individual narratives.
Cultural Reflections and Gender Dynamics
The episode discusses the gender dynamics portrayed in 'Cat,' suggesting that while Kat is depicted as the more dominant figure, the ultimate power still rests with Jer, her male counterpart. This interaction highlights the societal structures that favor masculine authority, raising questions about contemporary gender roles. Egan and the host draw parallels between the story's 1990s context and today's evolving gender discussions, noting that shifts have occurred in perception but foundational issues remain. The engagement with this theme positions Atwood's work as a critical commentary on the ongoing power struggles between men and women.
The Role of Nostalgia and Cultural Change
Egan reflects on how the narrative embodies a sense of nostalgia for a pre-internet era, contrasting it with today's digital landscape. The story offers a lens to examine the transformation of communication and cultural production, as Kat's physical mail evokes a world long overshadowed by electronic interactions. This nostalgia is tinged with a critical view of the past, particularly in how women were portrayed within media and societal expectations. The discussion invites listeners to consider how past narratives shape present realities and influence contemporary storytelling.
Artistic Expression and Identity
The final segment focuses on Kat's struggles with her identity as an artist within a male-dominated industry, emphasizing her keen sense of curiosity and her push against societal norms. Her desire to provoke and address issues surrounding women’s bodies encapsulates a profound exploration of self and societal expectations. Egan and the host discuss the implications of Kat's relationship with Jer and her personal projects, such as the magazine they work on, as extensions of her identity. This intersection of personal and professional life illustrates the complexities women face in reconciling their aspirations with external pressures, making it a resonant theme for audiences today.
Jennifer Egan joins Deborah Treisman to read and discuss “Kat,” by Margaret Atwood, which was published in The New Yorker in 1990. Egan’s books of fiction include “The Keep,” “A Visit from the Goon Squad,” “Manhattan Beach,” and “The Candy House.” She is a winner of the National Book Critics Circle Award, the Pulitzer Prize, and the Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Fiction, among other honors. She has been publishing fiction and nonfiction in The New Yorker since 1989.
