Overdue Podcast Episode 715 - "Mrs. Caliban" by Rachel Ingalls
Release Date: August 11, 2025
In Episode 715 of Overdue, hosted by Andrew and Craig from Headgum, the duo delves into "Mrs. Caliban" by Rachel Ingalls. This comprehensive discussion navigates the novel's unique blend of romance and speculative fiction, providing listeners with an engaging overview, thematic analysis, and critical insights.
Introduction to "Mrs. Caliban"
Andrew and Craig introduce "Mrs. Caliban" as a trope-rich novel that explores unconventional relationships between humans and mythical creatures. They highlight the book's blend of domestic drama with fantastical elements, setting the stage for their deep dive.
"This is such a tropey book. You know that old trope where a giant lizard man wanders into your kitchen and you immediately strike up a physical relationship with it?"
— Andrew [03:58]
Author Background: Rachel Ingalls
Rachel Ingalls, born in 1940 in Boston, was the daughter of a Sanskrit scholar. She moved to Europe in the 1960s, where she immersed herself in the British literary scene. Ingalls authored several novels, with "Mrs. Caliban" being among her most notable works. The novel gained significant acclaim when it was named one of the 20 best novels by American authors since World War II by the British Marketing Council in 1986.
"Rachel Ingalls, born in 1940, passed away in 2018. She was born in Boston, daughter of a Sanskrit scholar..."
— Craig [06:13]
Plot Overview
"Mrs. Caliban" centers on Dorothy, a frustrated housewife grappling with the loss of her children and a strained marriage to Fred. Dorothy's mundane life takes a dramatic turn when Larry, a 6'7" frog-like creature, breaks into her kitchen seeking help. As Dorothy shelters Larry, an unexpected romantic relationship blossoms between them, challenging societal norms and personal boundaries.
"Dorothy has been like. She likes to put on. She likes to listen to the radio..."
— Andrew [18:21]
Thematic Exploration
The hosts delve into the novel's exploration of intimacy, identity, and the clash between the ordinary and the extraordinary. They discuss how Randalls uses the fantastical element of a frog-like creature to probe deeper emotional and societal issues.
"She says, it came from growing up watching Hollywood horror movies where the monster is more exciting than the drippy boyfriend or husband."
— Craig [13:12]
Character Dynamics
Dorothy and Larry's relationship is analyzed as a metaphor for seeking connection beyond conventional boundaries. The introduction of Estelle, Dorothy's friend, adds layers of complexity as hidden affairs and personal conflicts intertwine with the central romance.
"Estelle is wronging Dorothy behind Dorothy's back for years in multiple ways."
— Andrew [36:12]
Critical Reception and Comparisons
"Mrs. Caliban" is compared to works like Guillermo del Toro's "The Shape of Water" and the Russian film "Amphibian Man", which also explore human relationships with mythical creatures. The hosts note the novel's resurgence in popularity, especially following its 2017 reissue by New Directions.
"It is a cool book to read, but it is. It does just kind of happen to you."
— Andrew [12:11]
Discussion on Ambiguity and Reality
A significant portion of the conversation addresses the novel's ambiguity regarding the reality of Larry. While Larry performs actions that suggest his reality, such as hotwiring cars and engaging in violent encounters, the book leaves room for interpretation about his true nature.
"There's tons of ambiguity about it and, like, nobody else ever sees, like, the only."
— Andrew [42:14]
Goodreads and Listener Reviews
The hosts reference Goodreads reviews to highlight varied reader experiences. Some praise the novel's imaginative premise, while others critique its rapid plot developments and melodramatic elements.
"Elizabeth says, one of the strangest books I've ever had to read for class."
— Craig [48:22]
Final Insights and Personal Impressions
Andrew and Craig share their personal enjoyment of the book, despite its unconventional and sometimes jarring plot twists. They appreciate the book's ability to blend humor with deep emotional undercurrents, making it a memorable read.
"It's a weird book and I did have a good time with it and I liked it a lot."
— Andrew [43:39]
Conclusion
Episode 715 of Overdue offers a thorough exploration of Rachel Ingalls' "Mrs. Caliban," blending plot discussion with thematic analysis and critical reception. Andrew and Craig provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of the novel's strengths and its place within the speculative romance genre, making it a valuable resource for those contemplating adding it to their reading list.
For more insights and discussions, visit Overdue Podcast and follow them on social media at @overdupod.