Overdue Podcast Episode Summary: Ep 684 - "Thornhedge" by T. Kingfisher
Release Date: January 6, 2025 | Host: Headgum
1. Introduction
In the inaugural episode of 2025, Andrew and Craig dive into their backlog with "Thornhedge" by T. Kingfisher. The hosts set the stage by reflecting on societal resolutions and the joy of rediscovering overdue books. Their lively banter establishes a casual and engaging atmosphere for the discussion.
Notable Quote:
Craig [00:05]: "Guys will not shy away from spoiling specific story beats when necessary. Plus, these are books you should have read by now."
2. Exploring T. Kingfisher and Ursula Vernon
Craig introduces T. Kingfisher, the pen name of Ursula Vernon, highlighting her accolades, including a Hugo Award, and her diverse bibliography that spans classic literature, children’s books, and adult fiction. The duo delves into Vernon's dual identity, explaining how she uses different names to cater to varied audiences without confusing her reader base.
Notable Quote:
Andrew [05:00]: "Ursula Vernon as T. Kingfisher, writing without paying royalties to anybody."
They discuss Vernon's background, mentioning her education in anthropology and art, and her initial fame from the webcomic "Digger." Craig appreciates Vernon's cleverness and versatility, noting her ability to blend genres seamlessly.
3. The Art of Fairytale Adaptation in "Thornhedge"
"Thornhedge" is characterized as an award-winning novella that reimagines classic fairy tales with a darker twist. Craig articulates Vernon's interest in exploring "what if the princess was the villain?" This unconventional approach sets "Thornhedge" apart from traditional narratives, offering a fresh perspective on familiar stories.
Notable Quote:
Craig [09:07]: "What if the princess was the villain? Like, what if the person, the princess that was sleeping and was contained, was contained for a reason?"
The hosts trace the lineage of "Sleeping Beauty" from its origins in 14th-century romances to its modern adaptations, including Disney's rendition. They contrast the sanitized versions with Vernon's grittier take, which includes themes of betrayal, violence, and moral ambiguity.
Notable Quote:
Andrew [12:19]: "The original involves double crossing and sexual assault and attempted cannibalism and people almost being burned alive for their perceived crimes. So, like, it's not. It's not what you would think of as a Disney movie."
4. Detailed Plot and Character Analysis
Craig provides an in-depth summary of "Thornhedge," focusing on the protagonist, Toadling, a fairy creature with water-based magic who has been tasked with containing the villainous Princess Fayette in a thorn-covered tower. The discussion highlights the complex relationship between Toadling and Fayette, as well as the arrival of Halim, a knight from a Muslim royal family determined to "save" the princess.
Notable Quote:
Craig [24:38]: "And she has some water magic. She can go into her toad skin form and turn into a toad."
The hosts analyze the themes of isolation, misinformation, and societal judgments that permeate the novella. They explore how Vernon's portrayal of Toadling as a sympathetic, marginalized character challenges traditional hero archetypes. Andrew connects the narrative to broader societal issues, likening the story's media environment to real-world misinformation and prejudice.
Notable Quote:
Andrew [32:17]: "There's a lot of misinformation around there about what's happening in this tower."
5. Themes and Insights
Andrew and Craig delve into the novella's exploration of storytelling and truth. They discuss how "Thornhedge" questions which narrative prevails—the established fairy tale versus Toadling’s personal account. The conversation touches on the importance of empathy and understanding marginalized voices, as Halim chooses to believe Toadling over entrenched myths.
Notable Quote:
Craig [50:52]: "It's a sweet little novel that has to do with a princess trying to kill everybody."
They also highlight Vernon's ability to infuse emotional depth into her characters, maintaining a fairy-tale quality while addressing dark and complex issues. The hosts appreciate the balance between poetic storytelling and effective plot progression, noting how the novella remains engaging without becoming overly convoluted.
6. Conclusion and Recommendations
Wrapping up, Craig and Andrew highly recommend "Thornhedge" for its unique take on fairy tales and its thoughtful exploration of character and theme. They praise Vernon's writing style, which combines evocative, dreamy prose with substantial emotional resonance.
Notable Quote:
Craig [52:15]: "Most people would probably like this book. I think it's a good recommendation, I think."
The hosts encourage listeners to explore Vernon's work and reflect on the narratives that shape our understanding of classic stories. They also tease upcoming episodes, maintaining excitement for future book discussions.
Final Thought:
Andrew [58:08]: "Please try to be happy."
7. Future Episodes Preview
The duo briefly mentions the month's reading schedule, including "Before the Coffee Gets Cold" by Toshikazu Kawaguchi and "Chicken Soup for the Soul" by Jack Canfield et al. They assure listeners of engaging future content, blending literary analysis with their trademark humor and camaraderie.
Overall, this episode of "Overdue" offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of "Thornhedge" by T. Kingfisher, blending literary critique with engaging discussion. Andrew and Craig successfully highlight the novella's strengths, making their analysis both accessible and compelling for listeners new and old.