Paul Yoon Reads Fiona McFarlane
Jul 1, 2026 · 1h 5m
Summary
Deborah Treisman hosts Paul Yoon, who reads and discusses Fiona McFarlane’s story "Hostel." They analyze the narrative’s layered mysteries, the narrator’s jealousy of a couple’s seemingly perfect life, and the story’s connection to McFarlane’s collection *Highway 13*. The conversation explores themes of transient intimacy, the intrusion of evil, and the fragility of idealized relationships.
Topics discussed
Sponsor reads for Gusto, Hero, and Quince
Introduction of Fiona McFarlane's story 'Hostel'
Reading of 'Hostel' by Paul Yoon
Sponsor read for Wayfair
Discussion on narrative framing and mystery
Analysis of the narrator's jealousy and loneliness
Themes of evil, safety, and the horror movie aesthetic
The ripple effects of violence and true crime fascination
Concluding thoughts on storytelling and author bios
Outro and sponsor read for ChatGPT
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