Episode Overview
In this episode, TS analyzes Barbara Kingsolver's award-winning novel Demon Copperhead, a modern reimagining of Charles Dickens' David Copperfield set in Appalachia during the opioid crisis. This Pulitzer Prize and Women's Prize-winning bestseller follows a red-headed boy born to a teenage mother as he navigates poverty, foster care, addiction, and ultimately finds his voice through art.
Key Topics Covered
- The premise and characters of Demon Copperhead
- Parallels to Charles Dickens' David Copperfield
- The portrayal of the opioid crisis in Appalachian communities
- The foster care system and its failures
- Demon's compelling narrative voice and sardonic humor
- Structural and symbolic elements that could be improved
- The power of art as a means of processing trauma
- Craft discussion: Kingsolver's exposition techniques and character development
Timestamps
- 10:55 - Spoiler Warning & Detailed Analysis Begins
Drink Pairing
The Copperhead - A simple but impactful drink inspired by Demon's copper-colored hair and Appalachian roots.
Alcoholic version:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz apple cider
- Splash of cinnamon syrup
- Garnish with apple slice
Non-alcoholic version:
- 2 oz apple cider
- 1 oz ginger ale
- Dash of cinnamon
- Garnish with apple slice
Next Up
Coming soon: Klara and the Sun by Kazuo Ishiguro
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