Ep 615 - Moon of the Crusted Snow, by Waubgeshig Rice
Oct 23, 2023
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A podcast discusses the book 'Moon of the Crusted Snow' by Waubgeshig Rice, focusing on the post-apocalyptic genre and cultural apocalypse. They explore themes, reviews, character work, power dynamics, and conflict in the book. The hosts also discuss their fears and anticipation during the spooky month of Spooktobra and promote their website and upcoming book.
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Quick takeaways
'Moon of the Crusted Snow' explores themes of survival, community, and cultural resilience in a subtly post-apocalyptic Indigenous setting.
The arrival of a charismatic newcomer challenges power dynamics and sows division among the community, testing the main character's loyalty and resilience.
The symbolic presence of the Wendigo serves as a metaphor for the struggles faced by Indigenous communities in the face of capitalism and colonial injustices, deepening the exploration of cultural heritage and societal challenges.
Deep dives
The Importance of the Podcast 'Missing Pages' in the Book World
Missing Pages, a chart-topping and award-winning podcast produced by Podglomaret, returned for a new season. Hosted by Beth Ann Patrick, an acclaimed literary critic, the podcast explores hot topics in the publishing industry, such as book bans and the fame of authors like Colleen Hoover. It features notable guests like Jodi Picoult and Jim Milliot. The podcast challenges the status quo and sheds light on the publishing world's headlines and controversies.
Exploring the Post-Apocalyptic World in 'Moon of the Crusted Snow'
'Moon of the Crusted Snow' by Wabigeshig Rice is a subtly post-apocalyptic novel set in a remote Indigenous community. The story follows Evan, as he navigates the community's hardships when power goes out and the snow starts falling. The book delves into themes of survival, community, and cultural resilience. Rice skillfully combines elements of cultural traditions, the effects of colonialism, and the challenges of living off the land in a changing world.
The Shift in Power Dynamics with the Arrival of Justin Scott
When Justin Scott, a charismatic but unsettling newcomer, arrives in the Indigenous community, power dynamics begin to shift. Justin challenges the authority of the community's leaders, sowing seeds of division among its members. As tensions rise, Evan, the main character, must navigate this growing conflict while protecting his family and ensuring the community's survival. Wabigeshig Rice masterfully explores the complexities of human behavior and the moral dilemmas faced in times of crisis.
The Intriguing Presence of a Mythical Creature
Throughout the story, there are subtle hints of a mythical creature referred to as the Wendigo. The creature remains implicit but represents human greed and the worst aspects of individualism. Wabigeshig Rice incorporates this mythical figure as a metaphor for the struggles faced by Indigenous communities in the face of capitalism and colonial injustices. The Wendigo adds a haunting and thought-provoking element to the narrative, deepening its exploration of cultural heritage and societal challenges.
Surviving in a World Forever Changed
As the community grapples with the harsh realities of a crumbling society, Evan and other members face increasingly dire circumstances. Scott's influence and unsettling propositions test the community's resilience as they struggle to maintain their way of life. The novel portrays the strength of the community in the face of adversity and prompts readers to reflect on the significance of community, cultural preservation, and the endurance of the human spirit.
How would the "breakdown" phase of an apocalypse novel function if the characters involved had already survived through multiple apocalypses? That's the perspective that this week's book brings, in addition to the subtle spooks that come from anticipating the end of the world.