Starman After Midnight: A Conversation with Scott Semegra...

What this episode covers

Join host Theresa Bakken for a captivating conversation with Austin-based author Scott Semegran and Brooklyn-born narrator Brian P. Craig about their latest collaboration, Starman After Midnight. This literary fiction novel explores unlikely friendships, neighborhood mysteries, and the power of human connection in our divided times.Discover the story behind a naked man appearing on porch cameras, missing pets, and how two neighbors with opposing political views find common ground. Scott and Brian discuss the creative process, the art of audiobook narration, and how weather, technology, and serendipity weave through this unique tale.Episode Length: ~52 minutesScott Semegran - Austin, Texas-based author of literary fiction, including The Codger and the Sparrow (featured on Desideratum in 2024) and Starman After Midnight. Scott writes character-driven stories with humor, heart, and unexpected depth.Brian P. Craig - Audiobook narrator with an acting background who grew up in Brooklyn, New York. Brian brings Scott's characters to life with nuanced performances that capture both the humor and emotional complexity of the stories.[0:00 - 4:30] Introduction & Recording SetupThe challenges of home recording studiosManaging temperature and equipment noiseThe gift of getting lost in creative work[4:30 - 14:00] The Narrator-Author PartnershipHow Brian's voice blends perfectly with Scott's narrative styleThe difference between "by the numbers" mysteries and literary fictionWhy this collaboration works so well[14:00 - 23:00] Physical Description & Cinematic WritingScott's vivid character descriptions (the "human-sized farm egg" moment)How detailed imagery helps narrationThe cinematic quality of the storytelling[23:00 - 35:00] Literary Fiction vs. GenreCharacter-driven, voice-forward storytellingWhy readers either love it or hate itThe importance of humor in dark narratives[35:00 - 48:00] The Neighborhood as CharacterHow proximity forces connectionThe role of weather (ice storms, tornadoes, drought) as a unifying forceReal-life inspiration from Austin's 2022 ice storm[48:00 - 1:05:00] Unlikely Friendship Across Political DividesSeth (progressive writer) and Big Dave (MAGA plumber)How the friendship develops despite ideological differencesThe importance of face-to-face interaction vs. online conflict[1:05:00 - 1:20:00] The Starman MysteryA naked man appearing on neighborhood security camerasMissing and dead petsThe "Hey Neighbor" app and social media hysteriaThe yellow asterisk that gives Starman his name[1:20:00 - 1:30:00] Featured Audio ExcerptHank the Uber driver's storyThe great horned owl sceneBrian's masterful pacing and vocal performance[1:30:00 - 1:45:00] Technology & CommunityThe double-edged sword of neighborhood appsHow online information differs from face-to-face conversationThe physicality of in-person conflict and resolution[1:45:00 - 2:00:00] Unexpected ElementsThe Farmer's Almanac as common groundRural vs. urban perspectivesFinding shared language across divides[2:00:00 - 2:15:00] Magic & MysteryThe Melon Girl and magical realismNature's unpredictabilityThe Log Lady inspiration from Twin Peaks[2:15:00 - 2:30:00] The Audiobook FormatWhy this experimental structure works in audio10 poems, 10 short stories, and a 10-chapter novellaThe challenge of multiple narrative formsPurchase the audiobook from Libro.fm to support your local independent bookstore. Here's the Desideratum Podcast affiliate link:https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=25361&awinaffid=970873&ued=https%3A%2F%2Flibro.fm%2Faudiobooks%2F9798218769482Scott SemegranWebsite: https://scottsemegran.com/Brian P. CraigWebsite: https://brianpcraigvoice.actor/

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This episode is 52 minutes long.

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This episode was published on January 7, 2026.

What is this episode about?

Join host Theresa Bakken for a captivating conversation with Austin-based author Scott Semegran and Brooklyn-born narrator Brian P. Craig about their latest collaboration, Starman After Midnight. This literary fiction novel explores unlikely...

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