Emily Mester

Emily Mester, author of 'American Bulk, Essays on Excess,' examines the complex relationship between family and consumerism. She reflects on her family's nostalgic trips to Costco, blending joy with anxiety about overconsumption. The discussion highlights the emotional toll of excessive buying and its effect on identity. Mester also critiques the notion of need versus want and the cultural implications of shopping rituals. Through personal anecdotes, she sheds light on how materialism intertwines with familial bonds and societal expectations.