#249 | How All Men Can Relate to the Journey of Identity and Growth in ‘We the Animals’

🎙 Douglas Vigliotti explores "We the Animals" by Justin Torres, a coming-of-age novel that tackles the intricate themes of family, identity, and personal growth. Douglas sheds light on the author’s background and the book's narrative, which follows a young protagonist as he navigates complex family dynamics and his emerging sexuality. With a focus on the book's emotional depth and minimalist storytelling, Douglas shares his reflections, inviting listeners to join the conversation and embrace the subtle richness of literary fiction. ✓ Sign up for the monthly newsletter at BooksforMen.org. 📚 Learn more about "Aristotle for Novelists" at AristotleforNovelists.com or READ IT NOW! ⚡️ Connect with the host on Instagram @douglasvigliotti or learn more about him at DouglasVigliotti.com. 🎧 Listen to Douglas Vigliotti's other podcast: Slightly Crooked: Good Stories, Told Well. ⭐️ Please consider sharing "Books for Men" with other men who enjoy reading, or subscribing and rating on your favorite podcast platform. Either goes a long way in helping new listeners find the show and inspire (more) men to read. 🗣️ Listen to episode #95: Miles from Nowhere | Nami Mun! 🗣️ Listen to episode #244: 'Reasons to Live'—Why What Isn't There Is Just as Important as What Is! 💥 TOPICS COVERED IN THE EPISODE:Introduction to "We the Animals" (00:09) - Douglas introduces the book "We the Animals" and its themes of family and identity.Author Background (01:17) - Discussion on Justin Torres, his writing career, and his connection to the book.Book's Adaptation (02:31) - Mention of the indie film adaptation of "We the Animals" released in 2017.Themes of the Story (03:36) - Exploration of the book's themes of family life, childhood longing, and the protagonist's coming out.Complexity of Emotion (05:00) - Insight into the emotional complexities in the story, compared to works by Amy Hempel.Growth is Painful (06:13) - Discussion on the protagonist's painful journey of growth and self-discovery.Meaning of the Title (08:51) - Analysis of the title "We the Animals" and its symbolic significance in the narrative.Closing Remarks (10:24) - Douglas encourages listeners to subscribe, rate the podcast, and connect with him.