The New Yorker: The Writer's Voice - New Fiction from The New Yorker Andrew Martin Reads "Risk, Discipline"
Dec 14, 2025
Andrew Martin, an acclaimed author known for his novels and short stories, reads his poignant story “Risk, Discipline,” adapted from his upcoming novel, Downtime. He delves into the struggles of Violet and Malcolm's pandemic-era relationship, exploring themes of work, emotional dislocation, and the curious decision to marry for stability. As guests Grant and Chelsea stir up tensions, the couple navigates personal doubts, societal expectations, and the complexities of intimacy. Ultimately, they grapple with their future, reflecting on the risks and rewards of commitment.
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Marriage As Anchor In Crisis
- Andrew Martin recounts deciding to marry Violet during a deep depression and pandemic-induced isolation.
- Their urgency for joy and commitment stemmed from fear, boredom, and a desire to anchor themselves amid chaotic times.
An Upstate Wedding To Secure Legitimacy
- They chose an upstate town for a quick, bureaucratic wedding to avoid pandemic delays and preserve institutional legitimacy.
- The trip mixes domestic mundanity with anticipatory excitement and anxiety about making the choice permanent.
Guests Who Upset The Equilibrium
- Grant and Chelsea arrive as provocative, destabilizing guests who bring chaos and substances to the wedding weekend.
- Their presence introduces sex, drugs, and alternative relationship models that challenge the narrator's assumptions.
