926. Kimberly King Parsons

Kimberly King Parsons, author of the debut novel *We Were the Universe*, examines the intersection of grief, motherhood, and the search for meaning. The narrative centers on Kit, a young mother in Texas navigating the unresolved trauma of her sister’s death from addiction while balancing the demands of parenting and a heteronormative marriage. Psychedelics serve as a recurring motif, representing a desire for clarity and a "shortcut" to processing deep-seated pain, though the discussion emphasizes that there is no substitute for the long-term work of carrying grief. The dialogue further explores the complexities of maintaining queer identity within traditional environments and the value of nurturing platonic friendships. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the necessity of empathy and connection, suggesting that even the most difficult human experiences can be metabolized through honest self-reflection and the pursuit of authentic relationships.