Lost Lambs: Dua Lipa & Madeline Cash On Her Debut, Dysfunctional Families & The Search For Meaning
Summary
Dua Lipa interviews Madeline Cash about her debut novel, Lost Lambs, a satirical saga of a dysfunctional American family grappling with modern ennui. They discuss the book’s absurd humor, themes of aging and identity, and Cash’s meticulous plotting process. The conversation also touches on Cash’s background in the literary scene and her transition to mainstream success.
Topics discussed
SimpliSafe ad and episode intro
Intro to Madeleine and her book Lost Lambs
Chatting about living in London vs New York
Book comparisons and initial pitch
The Flynn family dynamics and characters
Themes of discontent, aging, and vanity
Neuroplasticity, stubbornness, and found family
Character deep dive: Harper and Miss Winkle
Subverting stereotypes with War Crimes Wes
Parenting failures and the open marriage plot
The 'basement' metaphor and plot twists
The creepy tech billionaire antagonist
World-building process and no hierarchy of danger
Novels as art vs social commentary
The Dime Square lit scene and literary salons
Support system and the fear of being documented
Balancing press, ads, and writing routine
London lit scene and rat anecdotes
Reader Q&A: Talents, surprises, and gnats
Next book update and closing thoughts
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