036: “The Pugilist at Rest” by Thom Jones

If you enjoyed this episode, consider joining our Patreon. Your support helps us keep the show running. Find out more at http://www.patreon.com/whyisthisgoodpodcast In this episode, we are joined by our friend and author, Karl Luntta.  Karl is the author of the novel Know it By Heart (Northwestern University Press/Curbstone) and short story collection Swimming (SUNY Press), and has published fiction in journals including International Quarterly, North Atlantic Review, Talking River Review, Baltimore Review, Northeast Corridor, and Toronto Review. He is a firm believer in the Oxford comma. Karl suggested we read “The Pugilist at Rest” by Thom Jones. What can we learn from a story about the Vietnam War? What can we learn from such a clear and strong narrative voice? What can we learn from a story structured with compelling digressions and tangents? What do we make of the inclusion of the eponymous statue as a centerpiece of the story? For daily writing tips, industry news, and great short fiction, join our Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/napleswritersworkshop You can also subscribe to our monthly newsletter at http://www.napleswritersworkshop.com