The Layers of Love and the Human Condition with Neal Fishman
In this episode of SoundBits, Kim Groshek welcomes author Neal Fishman to unpack the complex emotional and psychological themes in his Esteban trilogy. From love and loneliness to mental illness and religious identity, Neal shares the intricately layered journey of his protagonist, Esteban—a priest unaware of his own mental illness, shaped by a dysfunctional upbringing and a life steeped in duty and inner conflict. The conversation dives into the narrative technique of revealing truths only to the reader, the multidimensional nature of love, and how the environment we grow up in molds us. Kim and Neal also connect over their shared experiences writing fiction and building emotionally rich characters in layered worlds.
SoundBits podcast · Kim Groshek, Neal Fishman
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Show Notes
Neal introduces the Esteban trilogy and its themes: Love’s Ordeal, Love’s Irony, and Love’s Triumph
Esteban’s struggle with undiagnosed mental illness and loneliness
How Neal uses narrative perspective to reveal hidden truths to the reader
The complex family dynamic between Esteban and his emotionally absent father
Esteban’s life as a priest, and how training leads him to "not remember" confessions
The influence of upbringing, religion, and environment on identity and choices
Kim and Neal swap creative journeys and challenges of writing deeply personal fiction
The power of fiction to reflect on human vulnerability, resilience, and transformation
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