In this episode of Everyone Should Read, hosts Drew Sylva and Kate Watters dive into the Southern American Gothic tradition, analyzing two iconic works: Toni Morrison’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel Beloved and Tennessee Williams’ Pulitzer Prize winning play Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. They discuss how these masterpieces explore themes of haunting, memory, trauma, family secrets, repression, and desire while painting a vivid picture of the American South.

From Morrison’s ghost story rooted in the legacy of slavery to Williams’ drama of power, love, and denial, Drew and Kate highlight how Gothic literature exposes hidden truths about American history, race, sexuality, and identity. Perfect for fans of classic literature, Southern Gothic stories, and cultural analysis, this episode connects the past to present conversations about resilience, legacy, and the ghosts that still shape our world today.

Trigger Warning: this episode discusses suicide. If you, or anyone you know are suffering from thoughts of self harm, or suicide, please call the Suicide Prevention Hotline at 988 or text the Crisis Text Line at 741741. Text HELP for English or AYUDA for Spanish.