The Oprah Podcast Eric Puchner: “Dream State” | Oprah’s Book Club
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Feb 18, 2025 In this engaging conversation, author Eric Puchner, known for his thought-provoking exploration of marriage and friendship, shares insights from his novel 'Dream State.' The discussion delves into the complexities of human relationships, using humor and poignant anecdotes. They discuss the impact of real-life experiences on storytelling, the emotional turmoil of grief, and the challenges of parenthood. Puchner also reflects on the significance of connection and authenticity, encouraging readers to find beauty in daily joys and the narratives of their lives.
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Norovirus Wedding
- Puchner's novel 'Dream State' was inspired by a wedding where many guests, including the groom, contracted norovirus.
- A flower girl vomited on the aisle, and the square dancing further spread the virus.
Wrong Marriage
- Puchner aimed to write a marriage plot that ends in a 'wrong' marriage.
- He wanted to explore a scenario where the characters don't end up with their destined partners.
Finding the Ending
- Puchner struggled with the book's ending until a writer's residency.
- He decided to revisit the initial wedding scene, envisioning an alternate 'dream life'.
