S3E14 A Jewish Artist on Writing, Loneliness, and the Urge to Be Seen
Description
In this episode, Rabbi Josh speaks with writer Daniel Elder, whose deeply personal nonfiction grapples with intimacy, loneliness, and identity. Elder discusses his journey from playful fiction to raw self-revelation, and the ways his involvement with Corporeal Writing opened up a body-centered approach to storytelling. He reflects on the paradox of being an “exhibitionist” who still feels vulnerable, his exploration of queerness and family, and the influence of grief on his voice as a writer.
The conversation also turns to Elder’s evolving Jewish identity—shaped by loss, mentorship, and participation in Art/Lab—and the challenges of being a Jewish artist in a polarized moment. Together, they explore what it means to hold paradoxes, whether in art, faith, or politics, and how writing can serve as both a personal unveiling and a form of connection.
Show notes
- Art/Lab: Innovating Jewish Arts & Culture – artlabpdx.org
-
Daniel Elder’s writing – danielelderwriter.com
-
Corporeal Writing – corporealwriting.com
-
Lidia Yuknavitch (mentor, founder of Corporeal Writing) – lidiayuknavitch.net
-
Jonathan Richman – Only Frozen Sky (new album Elder recommends) – Spotify link | Apple Music link
-
Arcade Fire – “My Body Is a Cage” – YouTube
United States
