Fresh Air Best Of: A Life Of Self-Contempt / Character Actor Julianne Nicholson
Jul 20, 2024
Shalom Auslander, a humorist and writer, shares insights from his latest memoir, 'Feh,' which humorously navigates his challenging upbringing in an ultra-Orthodox Jewish family while tackling themes of self-contempt and identity. Julianne Nicholson, a celebrated character actor, discusses her latest role in 'Janet Planet,' reflecting on parenthood and her transformative experience winning an Emmy for 'Mare of Easttown.' Together, they explore the intersection of personal struggles with creativity, offering a rich tapestry of humor, emotion, and artistic expression.
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Childhood in an Ultra-Orthodox Community
- Shalom Auslander grew up in an ultra-Orthodox community, experiencing fear and shame due to a perceived angry God.
- His father's abusive behavior reinforced this negative image, making him question his own goodness.
God vs. Humans
- The Old Testament and the New Testament portray God as the protagonist and humans as flawed.
- Auslander questions whether God or humans are the "good guys" in these narratives, highlighting the instilled sense of human deficiency.
The Chiclets Rebellion
- Auslander's grandmother gave him non-kosher Chiclets, defying his mother's disapproval.
- This small act of rebellion suggested a middle ground within the strict religious rules, offering a glimpse of sanity.
