#176: Barbara Kingsolver's Demon Copperhead: Appalachians React
Apr 4, 2023
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Bestselling author Barbara Kingsolver discusses her book 'Demon Copperhead' set in Appalachia. The podcast covers topics such as Appalachian representation in media, a train derailment in West Virginia, ask reddit prompts, conspiracy theories, flaws in the missile defense system, spring festivals in Appalachia, food festivals and events, the impact of medical marijuana legalization in Kentucky, and thoughts on 'Demon Copperhead'.
Demon Copperhead challenges assumptions about Appalachia, addressing themes of poverty, exploitation, and the broken foster care system.
Barbara Kingsolver aims to challenge stereotypes and provide a different understanding of Appalachia through her storytelling in Demon Copperhead.
The choice of Demon as the main character and narrator in Demon Copperhead allows for a personal perspective that evokes empathy and conveys the challenges faced by many Appalachian people.
Deep dives
Initial Thoughts
Demon Copperhead is a compelling story that challenges assumptions about Appalachia. It addresses themes of poverty, exploitation, and the broken foster care system. The vivid descriptions of the region make it relatable for many readers. However, there were some mixed feelings about certain portrayals and the lack of middle-class views. Overall, it was seen as a well-executed social statement with strong imagery and interwoven themes.
Barbara Kingsolver and Demon Copperhead
Barbara Kingsolver is a prolific author known for her strong social engagement in her writing. Demon Copperhead is a modern retelling of David Copperfield, focusing on societal issues in Appalachia. She aims to challenge stereotypes and provide a different understanding of the region through her storytelling. Demon Copperhead is seen as a book for both Appalachians and those outside the region to explore empathy and societal problems.
Individual Reactions
Individual reactions to Demon Copperhead varied. Some found it cathartic and appreciated its portrayal of the exploitation of the poor. Others had mixed feelings about certain elements, such as the lack of middle-class views. The storytelling and imagery were praised, but there were also concerns about caricatures and portrayals of native Appalachians. Overall, it was considered a well-told story that evoked strong emotions.
Character and Narration
The choice of Demon as the main character and narrator was well-received. It allowed for a personal perspective and understanding of his journey, which garnered empathy from readers. His difficult past and struggles with drug abuse provided context for his experiences and better conveyed the challenges faced by many Appalachian people. The narration style made the story more relatable and immersive.
The portrayal of social workers and foster care in the book
The discussion revolves around the portrayal of social workers and foster care in the book. One participant expresses concern about the representation, highlighting that it perpetuates the narrative that social workers are failing the community. They argue that a more balanced representation could have included a positive example of a social worker. Another participant believes that the negative portrayal serves the purpose of showing societal failures to protect children, rather than being a commentary on social work as a whole. They suggest that as a fictional book, it should be viewed from a different perspective. Overall, the discussion recognizes the importance of social workers and the need for more resources and support for them.
Train derailment and environmental impact in Southern West Virginia
A train derailment occurred in Southern West Virginia, close to New River Gorge National Park, resulting in injuries, fire, and an unknown amount of diesel fuel and oil spilling into the New River. The company involved, CSS, claimed that the incident posed no danger to the public, which was contradicted by experts. The discussion highlights the contradiction between the company's claims and the potential environmental hazards caused by the spillage. It emphasizes the sensitivity and destructive nature of oil spills in fresh water bodies, like the New River, and expresses concern over the lack of attention given to this incident. The participants call for more regulations and accountability in the rail industry to prevent such incidents and protect communities.
Interview with Barbara Kingsolver on the Australian podcast The Book Show: “Barbara Kingsolver finds the hillbilly in Charles Dickens” https://tinyurl.com/mtmhaudr
What are your initial thoughts on Demon as a narrator?
What did we think of the times when Kingsolver “steps in”, as it were?
What are your feelings on Barbara Kingsolver’s discussion of the word “hillbilly” starting on page 68?
What are your thoughts on the portrayal of social workers and foster care portrayed in the book?
We have allread different nonfiction books about the opioid crisis in Appalachia. What do we think of the portrayal of addiction and recovery in this novel?
Now that we have discussed the book, who do you think this book is for?
