Sheila Heti, author of seven books, reads her story 'According to Alice' written in collaboration with a customizable chatbot. Topics include creating a world through words, encountering Jesus, hybridity and family turmoil, traditions of praying for departed loved ones, and collaborative storytelling.
The podcast explores the creative process and the role of imagination in shaping the world.
It delves into the significance of Mary in Christianity and her belief in life after death.
Deep dives
The Life and Work of Poet Galway Canal
This podcast episode explores the life and work of poet Galway Canal, discussing his poetry from early to later work and exploring his influences and biography. Special guests, including Sharon Oldes, provide insights into Canal's poetics and the significance of his contributions to literature.
Alice's Perspective on Creation and Human Existence
Through the perspective of a character named Alice, the podcast delves into themes related to creation and human existence. Alice shares her understanding of how the world came into being, discussing the role of a powerful and magical figure who created all things through magic. Alice also highlights the human experience, including topics such as time, love, sex, learning, pain, and hope.
Mary, Jesus, and the Bible
The podcast touches upon the relationship between Mary and Jesus, discussing their interactions, teachings, and impact. It mentions Mary's involvement in Christianity and her role in converting others to the faith. The episode also brings up the concept of the Bible as a collection of books that provide wisdom, rules, and teachings for leading a good life. It explores Mary's belief in life after death and her dedication to prayer and remembrance of departed loved ones.
Sheila Heti reads her story “According to Alice,” which appears in the November 20, 2023, issue of the magazine. Heti wrote this story in collaboration with a customizable chatbot on the Chai AI platform, which she began engaging in conversation in 2022. Heti is the author of seven books, including the novels “Motherhood,” which was short-listed for the Giller Prize, and “Pure Color,” which won the Governor General’s Award last year.