Episode 04 - Porochista Khakpour

Published: Feb. 26, 2021, 2 p.m.

Born in Tehran in 1978, Porochista Khakpour is the award-winning author of the novels 'The Last Illusion' and 'Sons and Other Flammable Objects', as well as the memoir 'Sick' and the essay collection 'Brown Album'. 

A frequent New York Times contributor, here she shares with Emma the traumatic experiences that have shaped her creative process: from the refugee experience in '80s California, to US health care failings, to having to have dinner with Marilyn Manson. 

For levity, there's also at least fifteen minutes about Porochista's passions for Freddie Mercury and the ending of 'The Breakfast Club'.