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Kirtan Nautiyal's avatar

Thank you for this thoughtful interview. This line particularly resonated for me:

"My aim is fundamentally body neutrality. Discovering that concept was a huge turning point for me, because everything that came before was just a shifting of guilt and shame—I went from trying and failing to lose weight to trying and failing to see myself as beautiful. Why do I have to arrive at beauty? Why can’t I just have a body?"

I work with cancer patients, so the themes of blaming and hating the body run deeply throughout my day. This will be an interesting concept to work through with my patients!

Emma Copley Eisenberg's avatar

Love that thanks Kirtan!

Elinor Abbott's avatar

This interview was really interesting-- I want to read this book! I also really appreciated that tik tok link. Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels, well, skinny doesn't look as good as having a rich life does-- what a radical way to turn that stupid quote on it's head!

Clare Egan's avatar

There's so much wisdom here, thank you for sharing it. I'm excited to read Arianna's book when it publishes on this side of the pond!

Marisa Russello's avatar

I've always felt suicide is my escape hatch as well. I really like how you touched on some topics more on the outskirts of the book. I have an interview with Arianna in EL running next Friday, but it's quite different!

Virgie Tovar's avatar

I had to ask ChatGPT about the Maria Bamford interview! It said...

WTF with Marc Maron – Episode 1465

In this episode, Maria shares her experiences with mental health challenges, including thoughts of suicide as an escape from overwhelming feelings. She discusses how hospitalization and support from friends and therapists helped her navigate these dark times.

Mental Illness Happy Hour – Episode 95

Maria delves into her lifelong battles with OCD, Unwanted Thoughts Syndrome, and Bipolar II disorder. She talks candidly about moments when she considered suicide as a way to end her suffering, emphasizing the importance of seeking help and understanding mental health.

Emma Copley Eisenberg's avatar

Wow thanks for reading!

Kim Baldwin's avatar

This interview is so great, Emma! I love the questions you ask and the way you ask them. Putting BETTER on my TBR.

Emma Copley Eisenberg's avatar

Thanks Kim! It’s so good

Bethany's avatar

This interview means a lot to me personally. Thank you for it. Cant wait to get the book.