Longform Podcast #580: Rachel Khong

Longform Podcast #580: Rachel Khong

Rachel Khong, a journalist and author, appeared on the Longform Podcast in May 2024 to discuss her latest novel, *Real Americans*. The conversation centered on themes of human connection, communication, and the challenges of expressing one’s true self.

Khong described her novel as exploring “the ways in which we miss each other as human beings and can’t fully communicate what it is like to be ourselves.” She emphasized the inherent difficulty of capturing human experience in words, noting that the effort to do so is itself a reflection of human relationships.

“And I think that’s what makes it so interesting to me, to work on a novel and to spend so much time trying to get down on the page what it feels like to be a human being who’s alive,” Khong said. “I think the effort itself is what human relationships are.”

The interview also touched on Khong’s background in journalism, her approach to writing fiction, and the personal and professional experiences that shape her perspective. While the podcast did not include direct quotations beyond those summarized here, Khong’s reflections highlighted her focus on authenticity and empathy in storytelling.

Listeners were directed to download the podcast if their browser did not support the audio player. The episode was part of the Longform series, which features in-depth conversations with writers, journalists, and other creative professionals.

Khong’s novel, *Real Americans*, was released to critical attention for its nuanced portrayal of identity and belonging. The book weaves together multiple perspectives, examining how individuals navigate cultural, familial, and societal expectations.

The podcast episode provided listeners with insight into Khong’s creative process and her views on the limitations and possibilities of human connection. By framing storytelling as an act of both struggle and discovery, she underscored the importance of continued effort in understanding ourselves and others.

The Longform Podcast, hosted by Max Linsky and Aaron Lammer, is known for its unscripted, conversational style. The May 2024 episode with Khong followed this format, offering an informal yet substantive exploration of her work and ideas.

For those interested in literary fiction that grapples with complex emotional and cultural themes, Khong’s novel and her discussion on the podcast offer compelling entry points. The episode remained accessible online for listeners seeking to engage with her perspective on writing and human experience.