Guest Lindsay Lerman, scholar and author, discusses her novel 'What Are You?' and other work including translating Francois Laruelle's book. Topics include shifting perception after gaining attention, the transition as the dark night of the soul, the dialectical complicity of creation and destruction, solitude's importance in writing and parenting, and the act of confronting dark forces and risking oneself. Hosts express gratitude and discuss future possibilities for Lindsay's work.
Solitude is essential for understanding and connecting with others, as it provides a deeper perspective on relationships and responsibilities.
Embracing darkness as a fundamental aspect of existence allows for a nuanced understanding of self and others.
The writing process, like the transition stage of childbirth, involves intense struggle and questioning, leading to growth and transformation.
Deep dives
The Paradox of Solitude and Connection
The author explores the paradox of needing solitude in order to understand and connect with others. By removing oneself from the busyness of daily life, one can gain a deeper perspective and ask critical questions about relationships and responsibilities. The author relates this paradox to the experience of writing, where solitude is necessary to fully engage with one's thoughts and ideas. Additionally, the author highlights the role of solitude in parenting, allowing for a healthier sense of individuation and a more authentic connection with others.
Engaging with Darkness and Embracing the Paradox
The author shares a fascination with darkness and engages with it both in writing and in life. Rather than being afraid of the darkness, the author embraces it as a fundamental aspect of existence. The author acknowledges the interplay between light and dark, recognizing that shadow cannot be eradicated completely. By exploring the darkness, the author delves deeper into the complexities of existence and gains a more nuanced understanding of self and others.
The Transition and Dark Night of the Soul
The author draws parallels between the transition stage of childbirth and the writing process. Just as the transition phase in labor is a moment of intense struggle and questioning, the author sees their writing journey as a metaphorical transition. It is a moment of breaking down and questioning the purpose and existence of writing. The author recognizes the importance of embracing this dark night of the soul, as it serves as a catalyst for growth and transformation.
The Impersonal Eye and Desire for Transcendence
The author explores the concept of the impersonal eye in their writing. This concept involves reaching beyond individual identities and tapping into the impersonal forces that underpin existence. The author questions the desire for transcendence and the yearning for a higher connection. They challenge the idea that desire comes from external sources, proposing that it emerges from a need to fill the absence of connection with divine entities. Ultimately, the author navigates the tension between solitude and connection, darkness and light, in their pursuit of deeper understanding and creative expression.
Exploring the Intertwined Relation between Solitude and Co-belonging
The podcast delves into the idea that engaging in solitude can intensify the sense of co-belonging we have with others. While solitude may seem like a solitary experience, it adds a new flavor to our connections with people and enhances our experience of co-existing with others. This give-and-take relationship between solitude and co-belonging allows for a deeper sense of connection and understanding among individuals.
The Importance of Risk and Becoming Equal to Death in Art and Life
The podcast discusses the significance of embracing risk and the concept of becoming equal to death in the realms of art and life. The guest shares their belief that risking and confronting dark forces, including death, are essential elements in the creative process. By willingly stepping into the unknown and embracing the potential outcomes, individuals can truly experience the rewards and transformative power of art and life. It is emphasized that engaging with death and its mysteries should be seen as a celebration of life rather than something to fear.
Lindsay Lerman, scholar and author, joined us to discuss her most recent novel, What Are You?, as well as her other work, which includes the translation of Francois Laruelle's first book.
Lindsay's Links:
https://neutralspaces.co/lindsaylerman/
https://www.clashbooks.com/new-products-2/lindsay-lerman-what-are-you-preorder
Support us on Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/muhh
Twitter: @unconscioushh
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