Intelligence Squared
Cults, Communes and Female Rage on the Page, with Amy Twigg
Aug 13, 2024
In a fascinating conversation, debut novelist Amy Twigg, praised for her book Spoilt Creatures set in a women's commune, is joined by Anna Bogutskaya, a writer and horror film programmer. They dive into the themes of female rage and the complexities of sisterhood within cult dynamics. The duo reflects on mental health, self-care amidst busy lives, and the significance of authentic voices in literature about communal living. They also explore tensions women face in society, shedding light on the relevance of these themes in contemporary culture.
37:24
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Quick takeaways
- The novel 'Spoilt Creatures' intricately explores the duality of empowerment and exploitation within female-only communes through the protagonist Iris's complex journey.
- Amy Twigg's narrative reflects on the evolving societal perceptions of female identity and violence across different timelines, critiquing the commodification of horrific events.
Deep dives
The Allure and Complexity of Female Communes
The concept of a female-only commune serves as a central theme in the novel, exploring themes of transgression, sisterhood, and manipulation. The story follows a woman named Iris who becomes captivated by a commune led by powerful women, which initially appears to be a safe space. However, as the narrative unfolds, it becomes evident that beneath the surface lies a complex interplay of desires and violent undercurrents. This duality raises questions about the genuine intentions of such communes and the potential for both empowerment and exploitation within them.
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