Filmmaker, writer, and acclaimed storyteller Miranda July is riding a wave of literary praise with her novel All Fours. Described by The New York Times as “the year’s literary conversation piece,” the book has secured spots on numerous best-of-the-year lists. In a recent interview with Terry Gross, July opened up about the novel’s intricate themes, including separation from a drifting spouse, navigating perimenopause, and the emotional turbulence of an affair.
July’s distinct voice shines through in All Fours, a work both intimate and daring. “I wanted to explore what happens when life feels so stuck that you’ll do anything—even things that terrify or seem taboo—to jolt yourself back to feeling alive,” she explained. The novel’s protagonist, a woman confronting the physical and emotional upheavals of midlife, mirrors the universal struggle to reconcile personal desires with societal expectations.
One of the book’s most poignant arcs centers on the protagonist’s decision to leave her partner of many years. “Separation is an act of profound self-reckoning,” July said. “It’s not just about what you’re leaving behind but about who you’re becoming—or trying to become.” The author drew on her own experiences and those of close friends, blending authenticity with her trademark narrative ingenuity.
Perimenopause, a life stage often cloaked in silence, is another key thread in the story. July portrays it with unflinching honesty, shedding light on its emotional and physical complexities. “Women aren’t often encouraged to speak about the transitions our bodies go through,” she said. “Writing about it felt both cathartic and necessary.”
Finally, the novel’s exploration of an affair adds layers of complexity to its themes of longing and self-discovery. July emphasized that the affair isn’t about villainy or betrayal but about a quest for connection in unexpected places. “It’s messy, yes, but so is life,” she noted.
In addition to her literary success, July remains celebrated for her multi-disciplinary artistry, from films like Me and You and Everyone We Know to thought-provoking performance pieces. With All Fours, she reaffirms her ability to capture the beauty and pain of human vulnerability.
Jazz Review: Sun Ra’s 1978 Concert Recording
Jazz historian Kevin Whitehead revisited a rare gem with the newly released recording of Sun Ra and his Arkestra’s 1978 concert. Whitehead, who attended the original performance, reflected on the experience as a collision of cosmic creativity and masterful musicianship.
“Sun Ra had this ability to blend the avant-garde with deep traditions of swing and blues,” Whitehead observed. The concert, recorded at the height of Ra’s innovative journey, features everything from explosive solos to moments of quiet transcendence.
The release serves as both a nostalgic callback for those who witnessed the Arkestra live and an introduction for new listeners eager to explore one of jazz’s most enigmatic figures.