The New Yorker: Fiction – Episode Summary: "The Size of Things" by Samanta Schweblin

Podcast Information:

• Title: The New Yorker: Fiction
• Host/Author: WNYC Studios and The New Yorker
• Episode: Souvankham Thammavongsa Reads Samanta Schweblin
• Release Date: July 1, 2025

1. Episode Overview

In this episode of The New Yorker: Fiction, host and fiction editor Deborah Treisman welcomes Laotian Canadian writer Souvankham Thammavongsa to read and discuss Samanta Schweblin's story "The Size of Things." Originally published in the May 2017 issue of The New Yorker and included in Schweblin's collection Mouthful of Birds, the narrative delves into themes of inheritance, personal transformation, and the complexities of human relationships.

2. The Story: "The Size of Things"

Plot Summary:

"The Size of Things" centers on Enrique Duval, a wealthy man who has inherited substantial wealth but still resides with his mother. Enrique frequently drives around town in his convertible, exuding arrogance and often seen with various women. The narrator, who owns a struggling toy store inherited from his father, notices Enrique repeatedly visiting the shop. Initially portrayed as self-absorbed and unsympathetic, Enrique's demeanor undergoes a profound transformation as he becomes involved in the daily operations of the toy store.

Over time, Enrique begins reorganizing the store's merchandise by color, creating visually stunning displays that attract a surge of customers. This act of creativity and attention to detail endears him to the narrator and his wife, Mirta, leading Enrique to take residence in the store. As days pass, Enrique's involvement deepens, manifesting in childlike behaviors and a gradual regression in his persona. The story culminates in a tense confrontation when Enrique is forcefully removed from the store by his mother, leaving the narrator and Mirta to grapple with the lingering questions about his transformation and the nature of their own relationships.

3. Discussion and Analysis with Souvankham Thammavongsa

Exploring Inheritance and Personal Transformation:

At the outset ([00:49]), Souvankham Thammavongsa highlights how "The Size of Things" resonated deeply due to its portrayal of personal change through the character of Enrique Duval. Thammavongsa reflects:

"[...] the way in which I felt changed in terms of how I felt about a character that I would not normally feel for. And I was surprised by my own feeling for this character, right, because the..." ([01:39])

This emotional shift underscores the story's power to challenge initial judgments and reveal the complexity of human emotions.

Character Dynamics and Regression:

Thammavongsa delves into Enrique's transformation from a seemingly arrogant wealthy man to a more vulnerable, childlike figure. She observes:

"I was definitely really struck by how certain things that I think are solid and true for myself could be so undone in such a short space and time in a story." ([02:53])

This regression raises questions about personal identity and the factors that influence one's behavior and self-perception.

Symbolism of the Toy Store:

The toy store serves as a central symbol in the narrative, representing both a space of creativity and a sanctuary for Enrique. Thammavongsa notes:

"He understands want on a commercial level. That might be different from someone who actually owns the store." ([27:30])

Enrique's organization of toys by color transforms the store into a mesmerizing display, attracting customers and temporarily revitalizing the business. This act symbolizes his attempt to find order and meaning within his life.

Themes of Parenthood and Belonging:

The relationship between Enrique, the toy store owners, and his mother explores the nuances of parenthood and the yearning for belonging. Thammavongsa reflects on the ending:

"It asks the question, is his right place with his mom or is it with this toy store couple?" ([32:52])

This ambiguity leaves listeners pondering the true nature of home and the complexities of familial bonds.

Stylistic Elements and Reader Engagement:

Thammavongsa appreciates Schweblin's minimalist writing style, which leaves much to the reader's imagination:

"There's such a boldness and a courage to leave that out and to say, I'm going to circle this moment and I'm going to make this moment stand for you." ([40:15])

This technique engages readers, allowing them to inhabit and interpret the scenes actively.

Notable Quotes:

• "He didn't belong fully to the store or to his old life, creating a space that was both his refuge and a new beginning." ([35:05])
• "He needs to fill a gap. It has to be that the couple can't have had experience with children as their own." ([27:50])
• "The size of Things refers to everyone's own view of the situation, their own frame of where they are." ([44:17])

4. Conclusion

Throughout the discussion, Thammavongsa emphasizes the story's exploration of how individuals cope with personal struggles and the search for connection. The ambiguous ending, where Enrique is forcibly removed by his mother, leaves listeners contemplating the unresolved tensions between past influences and present desires.

Deborah Treisman concludes by highlighting the profound impact of Schweblin's storytelling, which seamlessly blends psychological depth with symbolic richness, inviting readers and listeners alike to reflect on the intricate layers of human emotion and relationships.

About the Authors:

• Samanta Schweblin is an Argentinian writer based in Berlin, renowned for her novels and short stories that often delve into psychological and surreal themes. Her notable works include Fever Dreams and Mouthful of Birds.

• Souvankham Thammavongsa is a Laotian Canadian writer celebrated for her poetry and award-winning short stories, including her collection how to Pronounce Knife, which won the Giller Prize in 2020.

Additional Resources:

Listeners can explore more episodes of The New Yorker: Fiction by subscribing on Apple Podcasts or visiting the New Yorker Fiction Podcast. For short stories read by their authors, visit the Writer's Voice podcast.