Totally Booked with Zibby: Episode Summary Featuring Jennifer Lang - LANDED: A Yogi's Memoir in Pieces & Poses

Release Date: March 19, 2025

In this compelling episode of Totally Booked with Zibby, host Zibby Owens engages in a heartfelt and insightful conversation with author Jennifer Lang about her memoir, "Landed: A Yogi's Memoir in Pieces & Poses". The discussion delves deep into Jennifer's personal journey, her move to Israel, the intricate themes of her book, and the challenges she faces amidst the turbulent socio-political landscape of the region.

Introduction to Jennifer Lang and Her Works

Jennifer Lang is a multifaceted individual—a bookstore owner, publisher, author, and podcaster—whose literary contributions focus on identity, voice, faith, belonging, and home. A graduate of the Vermont College of Fine Arts and a former assistant editor at Brevity Journal, Jennifer brings a wealth of experience to her writing. Her debut book, "Places We Left Behind: A Memoir in Miniature," serves as a precursor to her latest work, "LANDED: A Yogi's Memoir in Pieces & Poses."

Zibby Owens introduces Jennifer with warmth and admiration, highlighting the unique structure and profound content of her memoir. She remarks, “...the structure and form of it, the way that you use the page and symbols and short chapters and just the way that you tell the story...” (03:34), emphasizing the book's experimental and calculated narrative style.

Exploring the Themes and Structure of "LANDED"

"LANDED" is described by Jennifer as a seven-year exploration conducted both on and off the yoga mat, seeking answers to complex life questions. She explains, “It's my seven year search and then some on and off a yoga mat for answers to hard questions about my mixed marriage, midlife hormones, empty nest and making life in the Middle East.” (03:41)

The memoir employs a non-linear storytelling technique, interweaving present actions with past reflections, all while aligning chapters with specific yoga poses. Jennifer refers to her short sections as "chapterettes," a deliberate choice inspired by writer Blair Glaser. This method allows her to delve deeper into themes when necessary, creating a mosaic of experiences that paint a vivid picture of her life in Israel.

Navigating a Mixed Marriage and Cultural Transition

Central to Jennifer's narrative is her mixed marriage to a traditionally Jewish French husband and their subsequent move from New York to Israel in 2011. She candidly shares the complexities of negotiating cultural and religious differences, particularly regarding Sabbath observance, which became a point of contention early in their marriage. “That decision on mine, it wasn't a very thought out decision.” (07:02) Jennifer reflects on the resultant simmering resentment and her journey towards self-identity and mutual understanding within the marriage.

Jennifer acknowledges the emotional toll of these negotiations, stating, “It's a love letter to my husband and an apology letter to myself.” (07:02) Her honesty about personal struggles and growth provides a relatable and authentic portrayal of maintaining a partnership amidst profound cultural shifts.

Life in Israel Amidst Conflict and Fear

Jennifer’s move to Israel coincided with escalating conflicts, including a severe war with Hamas and rising anti-Semitism. She openly discusses her fears, particularly following the October 7th attacks, which have profoundly impacted her sense of safety and belonging. “[...] Tonight is my first event in the States... What am I fearful of?” (21:49) Jennifer reveals her anxiety about sharing her experiences publicly in a non-Jewish world, fearing potential backlash or danger due to her Israeli residency.

She poignantly narrates a passage from her book titled "Bifurcated," capturing the traumatic impact of violent events on her family and community. The excerpt underscores the coexistence of everyday joys with the constant undercurrent of fear and uncertainty. Jennifer shares, “It's what it's like to live there... the beautiful day my daughter had is also what it's like to live there. They both coexist, these things. I call it the beauty and the bedlam.” (14:05)

Coping Mechanisms and Resilience

Despite the ongoing conflict, Jennifer discusses her resilience and the ways she copes with fear. She describes moments of unexpected calm during missile attacks and the emotional burden of witnessing her children navigate life's uncertainties in such a volatile environment. “[...] I now understand I can't live anywhere else. I now feel more Israeli than I've ever felt.” (25:57) Her acceptance of life in Israel, coupled with the solidarity and understanding from her community, provides a beacon of strength amidst chaos.

Jennifer also touches on the psychological impact of living in a war zone, detailing how certain sounds trigger intense emotional responses, though she notes a growing sense of calm over time. “[...] I no longer tremble.” (26:10) Her narrative conveys both the lingering trauma and the gradual adaptation to living under constant threat.

The Vibrant Yet Fragile Life in Tel Aviv

Living in Tel Aviv, Jennifer paints a picture of a city that remains vibrant and dynamic despite the surrounding conflict. She describes the bustling Carmel Market, active beaches, and the omnipresence of soldiers carrying their guns even in recreational settings. “[...] It's so dynamic and alive. It's crazy.” (31:16) This duality—joy intertwined with danger—highlights the resilience of the Israeli people and the persistent spirit of life even in the face of adversity.

Challenges in Publishing and Amplifying Her Voice

Jennifer expresses the difficulty of finding a platform for her essay reflecting her experiences and feelings amidst the war. Despite the challenges, Zibby Owens offers support by inviting Jennifer to publish her essay on her Substack, "On Being Jewish." However, Jennifer remains hesitant, feeling that her potential audience might already resonate with her story, making it less impactful to a broader readership.

Conclusion: A Story of Bravery and Connection

The episode concludes with mutual appreciation between Zibby Owens and Jennifer Lang, acknowledging the bravery it takes to share such personal and challenging experiences. Zibby commends Jennifer for enriching listeners' lives by offering an intimate glimpse into life in Israel, a perspective that many may not fully understand. “[...] Thank you for taking us with you and letting us in.” (34:12)

Jennifer's narrative in "Landed: A Yogi's Memoir in Pieces & Poses" serves as a powerful testament to resilience, identity, and the pursuit of belonging amidst chaos. Her storytelling not only highlights the personal struggles and triumphs but also sheds light on the broader socio-political realities of living in a conflicted region.

Notable Quotes:

• Jennifer Lang [03:41]: “It's my seven year search and then some on and off a yoga mat for answers to hard questions about my mixed marriage, midlife hormones, empty nest and making life in the Middle East.”

• Jennifer Lang [07:02]: “It's a love letter to my husband and an apology letter to myself.”

• Jennifer Lang [14:05]: “It's what it's like to live there... the beautiful day my daughter had is also what it's like to live there. They both coexist, these things. I call it the beauty and the bedlam.”

• Jennifer Lang [25:57]: “I now understand I can't live anywhere else. I now feel more Israeli than I've ever felt.”

This episode of Totally Booked with Zibby offers a profound exploration of personal and cultural identity through the lens of Jennifer Lang's experiences in Israel. It's a must-listen for those interested in memoirs that blend personal growth with broader societal issues, providing both emotional depth and insightful commentary.