The Talking Appalachian Podcast
Talking Appalachian is a podcast about the Appalachian Mountain region's language or "voiceplaces," cultures, and communities. The podcast is hosted by Dr. Amy Clark, a Professor of Communication Studies and Director of the Center for Appalachian Studies at the University of Virginia's College at Wise. The podcast is based on her 2013 co-edited book Talking Appalachian: Voice, Identity, and Community. Her writing on Appalachia has appeared in the New York Times, Oxford American Magazine, Salon.com, on NPR, and Harvard University Press blog. She is also founder and director of the Appalachian Writing Project, which serves teachers, students, and the communities of the central Appalachian region.
The Talking Appalachian Podcast
In Conversation with Ron Rash: The Caretaker and Appalachian Narratives
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*This episode first aired in 2023*
Bestselling author and Western North Carolinian Ron Rash joins the Talking Appalachian podcast to discuss his latest novel, The Caretaker. Amy explores Rash's extensive body of work, including his contributions to Talking Appalachian (the book), the significance of dialect and voice in his writing, and his fascination with cemeteries and family stories. The conversation delves into the emotional core of Rash's novels, the influence of his Appalachian upbringing, and the profound moments of human connection that shape his storytelling.
00:45 Ron Rash's Contributions and Background
01:28 Discussion on Ron Rash's Works and Achievements
03:12 Ron Rash's New Novel: The Caretaker
05:12 Exploring Themes and Characters in The Caretaker
12:17 The Role of Voice and Dialect in Writing
16:23 The Significance of Work in Fiction
20:58 Excitement for the New Book
21:35 Cemetery Stories and Family Memories
24:17 Gravestones and Their Meanings
26:25 The Corpse Bird and Superstitions
28:40 Writing About Family and Appalachia
29:59 Appalachian Culture and Personal Reflections
32:25 Memories of Tweety Railroad and Family
34:43 Poetry and Personal Loss
38:07 Final Thoughts
Ivy Attic CoJewelry from coal, river glass, and discarded books handcrafted in the central Appalachian Mountains
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Unless another artist is featured, acoustic music on most episodes: "Steam Train" written by Elizabeth Cotten and performed by Landon Spain
