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May 12, 2025 35 mins

This week we wrap up our discussion of Ursula LeGuin's 1974 classic The Dispossessed.

Simultaneity physics: just a mcguffin, or deeper thematic significance? How is it different to a block universe? Does this count as hard sci-fi?

on the [redacted] scene: why would LeGuin include this? how are we supposed to feel about our hero Shevek? why would capitalism make me do this??

Final thoughts on the book: was Shevek's arc satisfying? who would we recommend it to? are we gonna read more LeGuin?

Ted Chiang story coming soon. plus special guest episode!

CHAPTERS

  • (00:00:00) shevek’s arc or lack thereof
  • (00:11:20) talking about THAT scene
  • (00:16:40) Simultaneity theory unpacked
  • (00:25:45) Final thoughts on the book

WRITE US:

We love listener feedback. Send us a note at douevenlit@gmail.com to correct our hot takes, add your own, or ask a question.

NEXT ON THE READING LIST:

  • Truth of Fact, Truth of Feeling - Ted Chiang
  • Everything is Illuminated - Jonathan Safran Foer
  • One Hundred Days of Solitude - Gabriel Garcia Marquez
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