The New Yorker: The Writer's Voice - New Fiction from The New Yorker

Adam Levin shares his captivating story, "Jenny Annie Fanny Addie," exploring the transformative experience of summer camp. The narrative dives into emotional turmoil, reflecting on vulnerability and support through familial connections. It also tackles societal misconceptions, illustrated by a classic rock song's misunderstood lyrics. The protagonist's journey through shame and solitude adds depth, culminating in a reflection on nature’s beauty juxtaposed with introspection. Prepare for a blend of poignant storytelling and rich imagery.

In a deeply affecting narrative, David Bezmozgis weaves a tale of grief that explores a man's emotional turmoil following his mother's death. The story poignantly connects personal loss to complex family dynamics and cultural identity. As the protagonist navigates the challenges of bonding with his daughters, themes of memory and communication emerge. Against a backdrop of conflict, a father's longing for connection with his daughter further highlights the personal impact of broader political issues. This poignant reflection on loss invites listeners to contemplate hope amidst despair.

Ayşegül Savaş, an accomplished author behind notable works like "Walking on the Ceiling" and "The Anthropologists," shares insights from her story "Marseille." The narrative follows Amina as she navigates nostalgia and the complexities of friendship during a reunion in the city. Their conversations reveal bittersweet reflections on change and life choices, inviting a deep exploration of relationships. Savaş's unique perspective on the evolution of friendships adds an engaging layer to this poignant tale.

In this captivating discussion, Bryan Washington, a celebrated author recognized for his impactful storytelling, shares his latest work, “Hatagaya Lore.” He takes listeners on an emotional journey through a woman's struggle with isolation after moving from Dallas to Tokyo. The exploration of Tokyo's queer scene reveals deep connections and the complexities of relationships. Washington also reflects on themes of identity and belonging within the vibrant, yet isolating, backdrop of the city, leaving the audience with resonant thoughts on fleeting connections.

Joyce Carol Oates, a celebrated author of over seventy works and recipient of the National Humanities Medal, reads her haunting story “The Frenzy.” She delves into the complexities of relationships, exploring a man’s emotional upheaval during a drive with his younger lover along the Jersey Shore. Oates navigates themes of suburban discontent and the turmoil of an impulsive affair, culminating in a dramatic and tense escape that leaves listeners captivated by the characters' choices and vulnerabilities.

Yiyun Li reads her story, “Techniques and Idiosyncrasies,” from the March 17, 2025, issue of the magazine. Li is the author of eight books of fiction, including the novels “Must I Go” and “The Book of Goose,” and the story collection “Wednesday’s Child,” which was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in 2024. A new nonfiction book, “Things in Nature Merely Grow,” will be published in May. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Colm Tóibín's evocative reading of 'Five Bridges' captures a thrilling climbing adventure intertwined with personal reflections and nature's beauty. The emotional depth unfolds during a car ride where Paul navigates family dynamics and aspirations. Conversations reveal the lasting impact of the pandemic on relationships, while a hiking trip prompts nostalgia and the realities of adulthood. Tensions rise in a picturesque hostel, and a dinner gathering uncovers camaraderie mixed with introspection, providing insights into the complexities of friendship and belonging.

Joseph O'Neill, an acclaimed author known for his PEN/Faulkner Award-winning novel "Netherland," reads his poignant story "Keuka Lake." He explores themes like loss and the search for identity through the eyes of Nadia, a widow navigating grief and modern dating. The narrative also delves into her relationship with Beatrice, blending personal history with professional ties against the scenic backdrop of Keuka Lake. Listeners are treated to a vibrant depiction of seasonal shifts at a lakeside ice cream stand, linking everyday life to the essence of contemporary literature.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, renowned Nigerian author of acclaimed novels like “Half of a Yellow Sun” and “Americanah,” reads her poignant story “Chuka.” She delves into themes of self-discovery and connection amid the pandemic, sharing reflections on isolation, regret, and cultural expectations in relationships. Adichie navigates the complexities of love and personal aspirations versus societal pressures, all while inviting listeners to appreciate the nuances of gratitude and emotional burdens in past romances.

David Rabe, renowned playwright and fiction author, captivates listeners with his reading of "My Friend Pinocchio." He navigates emotional chaos following a rivalrous argument, exploring identity and the struggles of friendship in the arts. Rabe reflects on the challenges of authenticity, faith, and loss, revealing how personal turbulence shapes artistic ambition. His poignant storytelling contrasts the glow of ambition with life's harsh realities, offering a transformative vision of love amidst grief.