Episode Summary: Jessica Soffer Discusses "THIS IS A LOVE STORY"
Podcast: Totally Booked with Zibby
Host: Zibby Owens
Guest: Jessica Soffer
Episode Title: Jessica Soffer, THIS IS A LOVE STORY: A Novel
Release Date: February 7, 2025
Introduction to Jessica Soffer and Her Work
Zibby Owens warmly welcomes Jessica Soffer to the podcast, highlighting Jessica's notable achievements and background. Jessica is the author of "THIS IS A LOVE STORY" and "Tomorrow There Will Be Apricots". She boasts an impressive academic background with an MFA from Hunter College and has been featured in prestigious publications like Granta, The New York Times, and Vogue. Currently residing in Sag Harbor, New York, Jessica balances her life as a writer, educator, and parent.
Notable Quote:
"My work has appeared in Granta, the New York Times, Real Simple Sever, the Wall Street Journal, Vogue, and on NPR's Selected Shorts."
— Jessica Soffer [00:01]
Overview of "THIS IS A LOVE STORY"
Jessica provides a comprehensive overview of her novel, "THIS IS A LOVE STORY", detailing its structure and narrative perspectives. The novel chronicles a 50-year romance between Abe, a writer, and Jane, an artist. It delves into their relationship's evolution and its impact on their son, Max, who grapples with his own understanding of love. Additionally, the story introduces Alice, a young student who becomes intertwined in Abe and Jane's relationship. Central Park serves as a pivotal backdrop, offering a "kaleidoscopic view of love in general" through numerous anecdotes.
Notable Quote:
"There’s a kind of wide angle lens view of this one love story, but the kind of kaleidoscopic view of love in general."
— Jessica Soffer [01:29]
Incorporating Central Park as a Character
Zibby inquires about the inspiration behind using Central Park as a central element in the novel. Jessica explains that Central Park was the final component she integrated into the story. Initially, her focus was solely on Abe and Jane, but feedback from fellow writer Liz Moore inspired her to expand the narrative. Jessica reflects on her personal connection to Central Park, influenced by her father's artistic presence there, which became a symbolic witness to the unfolding love story.
Notable Quote:
"Central Park was the place that taught me the most I know about love and also humanity."
— Jessica Soffer [02:39]
Narrative Structure and Writing Style
Zibby praises the novel's unique narrative approach, noting the use of second-person perspective and fragmented, short paragraphs. She asks Jessica to elaborate on this stylistic choice. Jessica attributes the nonlinear storytelling to Abe's attempt to recount the entirety of their love story from a place of emotional complexity. The fragmented style mirrors Abe's internal turmoil as he reflects on his relationship's most poignant and challenging moments.
Notable Quote:
"It’s meant to reflect the agony of somebody telling the most beautiful moments of their life at the end of a life."
— Jessica Soffer [05:42]
Crafting Emotion Through Brevity
Zibby requests Jessica to discuss the challenge of conveying deep emotions and detailed narratives within concise writing segments. Jessica shares her belief in not confining the story to a single narrative thread. By highlighting various perspectives and keeping sections brief, she presents a raw and unfiltered depiction of long-term romance, balancing moments of joy with the inherent difficulties of sustaining love over decades.
Notable Quote:
"Abe and Jane's relationship is really good. It’s reciprocal, it’s respectful, it’s compassionate, it’s full of trust most of the time."
— Jessica Soffer [08:13]
Influences and Educational Background in Writing
The conversation shifts to Jessica's journey as a writer and educator. She credits her high school writing teacher and her mother's influence in fostering her passion for writing. Jessica recounts her studies at Hunter College under esteemed writers like Colin McCann and Peter Carey, which immersed her in the professional writing world. Her teaching career spans institutions such as Connecticut College and Stony Brook, extending to corporate writing workshops during the pandemic.
Notable Quote:
"I was very lucky in that I knew I wanted to be a writer young. My mother is a writer."
— Jessica Soffer [15:05]
Balancing Writing and Personal Life
Jessica discusses her relocation to Sag Harbor, New York, citing a desire for a more tranquil environment conducive to writing and family life. She expresses melancholy over the closure of local bookstores, reflecting on the challenges faced by independent bookstores today. Despite the move from New York City, Jessica finds solace and inspiration in Sag Harbor's serene atmosphere, which fosters introspection and creativity.
Notable Quote:
"Sag Harbor feels like a really good place to be a writer, a really good place to be a human, to be a parent."
— Jessica Soffer [19:47]
Upcoming Projects and Focus on Motherhood
Jessica reveals she is working on a new novel centered around motherhood. The forthcoming book explores the lives of four mothers entangled in a central scandal, offering diverse perspectives on motherhood's complexities and challenges. Drawing from her experiences as a mother of a five-year-old, Jessica aims to depict the profound and sometimes tumultuous journey of raising a child.
Notable Quote:
"I have a five-year-old and the women that I spend the most amount of time with are mothers and they’re so smart and they have such meaningful things to say about mothers."
— Jessica Soffer [22:01]
Advice for Aspiring Authors
Zibby asks Jessica to share her insights for emerging writers. Jessica emphasizes the importance of community and support, highlighting how writing can become isolating. She advises writers to seek trusted individuals who can provide encouragement and constructive feedback. Jessica also stresses the value of collaboration, crediting her agent and editor with significantly enhancing her writing process and book development.
Notable Quote:
"Find the people that you trust and who will get you there."
— Jessica Soffer [23:07]
Closing Remarks
Zibby commends Jessica on her upcoming work and expresses excitement for her continued success. The episode concludes with mutual gratitude, underscoring the impactful role of supportive relationships in both writing and personal growth.
Notable Quote:
"You do such important things for writers and for readers, and we’re all so grateful to you."
— Zibby Owens [24:52]
Key Takeaways
- "THIS IS A LOVE STORY" offers a multifaceted exploration of a long-term romance through multiple perspectives.
- Central Park serves not just as a setting but as an integral character that embodies the essence of love and time.
- Jessica's nonlinear narrative approach effectively conveys the emotional depth and complexity of enduring love.
- The importance of community and support in the writing journey is paramount for aspiring authors.
- Balancing personal life and writing can lead to profound inspiration and creative growth.
This episode provides an insightful glimpse into Jessica Soffer's literary world, her creative processes, and the thematic nuances of her work. Whether you're a fan of her novels or an aspiring writer seeking guidance, this discussion offers valuable perspectives on storytelling, character development, and the intrinsic ties between life experiences and creative expression.