The Podcast
Some books are more than a simple story. They hide timeless themes and allegories full of meaning that are always worth discussing—but doing so requires dedication and keen eye for details. Join Australia-based author Livia J. Elliot as she deep-dives into the themework present on different pieces of speculative fiction to find what lays beyond the plot, decipher their invisible meaning, and reflect on their symbolism. If you are a fan of fantasy or sci-fi books, new or old, traditional or self-published, this is the show for you!
Be mindful. Books Undone contains spoilers for the books discussed, which vary in each episode.
The Newsletter
Want to write smarter fantasy? Learn how to read and write with depth and meaning. Join Books Undone, my weekly writing lab to receive:
- Literary and prose analyses, and other bite-sized discussions.
- Meta-discussions around topics relevant to speculative fiction.
- How-tos and guides for nuanced, practical writing advice tailored for speculative fiction.
- Direct access to my podcast episodes, including the transcripts (when available).
PS: This newsletter is geared towards authors, deep-readers, and those interested in the craft of writing. It is not focused on my own work.
Episodes Transcripts
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Meaning is a Privilege: The Absurd in Hour of The Star
Books Undone But the emptiness has the value and the appearance of plenty. One way of getting is not looking, one way of having is not asking and only believing that the silence I believe to be inside me is the answer to my—to my mystery. Mystery. …
The Witness and the Liar: Morality in The Road and The Shape of the Sword
Books Undone Within a year there were fires on the ridges and deranged chanting. […] He thought that in the history of the world it might even be that there was more punishment than crime but he took small comfort from it. This stark quote …
Language Makes Horror Bearable: The Linguistics Behind Tender is The Flesh
Language Makes Horror Bearable: The Linguistics Behind Tender is The Flesh “His brain warns him that there are words that cover up the world. Words that are convenient, hygienic. Legal.” This is the hidden premise behind a layered …