The New Yorker: The Writer's Voice - New Fiction from The New Yorker Lara Vapnyar Reads “Siberian Wood”
Sep 4, 2023
Lara Vapnyar, an accomplished author, reads her story 'Siberian Wood' about a protagonist's drunken behavior at a party. The story explores strange occurrences with cats, reflections on intimacy, and the group's plan to create a YouTube channel. Mark confronts Daria about her plans to move out, but she surprises him with her reaction. The narrator reflects on New York City and discovers a secret about Darya's new project.
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Alcohol's Deceptive Energy
- Horseradish vodka masks its alcohol with herbal color and sharp flavor, creating a deceptive feeling of vigor.
- That false energy can lead to embarrassing loss of control in small social settings.
Dinner Humiliation Reveals Insecurities
- The narrator humiliates Sergei at a small dinner while drunk, exposing tensions between friends.
- That scene reveals fragile social bonds and the narrator's insecurity about her marriage.
Branding An Art Historian For YouTube
- Sergei, a former Russian art historian, is persuaded to start a YouTube channel about art with help from friends.
- His passion for wooden sculpture and insecurity about screen charisma drive their attempt to brand him.