In Episode 5, we discuss recent essay-adjacent events including a major loss in the literary world, Meghan Daum’s essay about leaving NYC during quarantine, and the tradition of essays about leaving New York, including Joan Didion, Eula Biss, and others.

Essays discussed:

Claire Fallon, “Please Stop Writing ‘Why I Left New York’ Pandemic Essays“

Meghan Daum, “I Left New York for Greener Pastures–and a Puppy“

Joan Didion, “Goodbye to All That“

Eula Biss, “Goodbye to All That“

And Elena’s outro song is Randy Newman’s “Louisiana 1927”: