The final cut

The final episode of Paper Cuts highlights significant developments in the literary landscape, including the 2021 Ockham Shortlist and upcoming writers' festivals in Auckland and Dunedin. Critical reviews of recent memoirs and novels feature Charlotte Grimshaw’s *The Mirror Book* for its lucid examination of family dynamics and Lauren Oyler’s *Fake Accounts* for its sharp, internet-centric narrative. Patricia Lockwood’s *No One is Talking About This* and Vendala Vida’s *We Run the Tides* serve as standout works exploring themes of grief, female friendship, and digital culture. Beyond literature, the conversation touches on the enduring appeal of *The Sopranos* and the podcast’s own upcoming hiatus. These discussions reflect a deep engagement with contemporary writing, emphasizing the challenges of navigating modern life, digital saturation, and the complexities of personal and family relationships.