Sarah Manguso

Sarah Manguso, an insightful author, channels her personal experiences of divorce into her novel 'Liars.' She discusses the raw emotions and societal pressures surrounding infidelity. Manguso explores how her protagonist’s journey reflects the complexities of relationships and gender dynamics, shedding light on the roles men play in marriage. She also highlights the therapeutic aspects of fiction in processing anger and despair, inviting readers to reflect on their own lives through her characters.

Sarah Manguso, a celebrated poet and author of nine books, joins to discuss her latest work, 'Liars,' which strips down the harsh realities of marriage and normalized misogyny. She shares insights from her own tumultuous divorce during the pandemic, revealing how such experiences fuel creativity. The conversation dives into gender dynamics, the complexities of motherhood, and societal expectations on women, while also highlighting the rise of 'pandemic divorces.' Manguso's reflections challenge traditional narratives, making for a compelling listen.

In this engaging conversation, guests Sarah Manguso, a sharp poet and memoirist known for her insightful essays, and Sheila Heti, a Canadian novelist who explores the intricacies of womanhood, dive into the complexities of motherhood. They share candid reflections on the emotional struggles tied to parenting and identity, particularly the societal pressures surrounding motherhood and personal choices. Their discussion also touches on the challenges of literary creation and the vulnerability of sharing unfinished work, revealing how these experiences define their art and friendships.