ABOUT THIS EPISODE
In this episode of The Dugout, we’re thrilled to welcome Margaret Killjoy, a prolific author, musician, crafter, and unapologetic anarchist. Margaret shares her journey from growing up as a "confused goth kid" in the suburbs to discovering anarchism through punk subculture and anti-globalization movements. We dive into the role of speculative fiction as a medium for radical imagination and discuss the intersections of identity, politics, and art. From DIY zines to the lasting influence of Steampunk Magazine, Margaret reflects on her experiences building and engaging with anarchist communities.
Key Points Discussed:
Margaret’s Early Years and Radicalization:
Growing up in the 90s as a suburban goth kid who found solace in books and punk culture.
Founding a Gay-Straight Alliance in high school and her gradual journey to anarchism through activism and anti-globalization protests.
Speculative Fiction and Anarchist Politics:
How speculative fiction became a way to explore and critique societal structures.
The origins of Steampunk Magazine and its radical intentions to challenge capitalism and colonialism.
Margaret’s reflections on the limitations and potential of art as a tool for activism.
Building Anarchist Communities and Subcultures:
The tensions between subcultures, aesthetics, and the politics they emerge from.
Margaret’s thoughts on how anarchism has evolved in her life—from a defining identity to a core value system.
The Importance of Organizing:
The historical legacy of anarchists as organizers and problem-solvers, such as the syndicalist-led abortion networks in 1920s Germany.
Why anarchists should embrace building structures while remaining vigilant about their permanence and purpose.
Art, Survival, and Connection:
The role of trauma in Margaret’s writing and how she uses fiction to process personal and political challenges.
Navigating parasocial relationships in art and media.
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WHO IS MARGARET KILLJOY?
Margaret Killjoy is an American author, musician, and podcast host. She is best known for her speculative fiction in the fantasy and folk horror genres, in particular for her two-book Danielle Cain series. Killjoy is involved in several musical projects across genres, including black metal, neofolk, and electronica.
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BUY SOME OF MARGARET'S BOOKS...
📚 If you want to read their new book Sapling Cage you can buy it here - https://bookshop.org/a/109212/9781558613317
and here are some links to our favorites
📚A Country of Ghosts - https://bookshop.org/a/109212/9781849354486
📚 Escape from Incel Island! - https://bookshop.org/a/109212/9781958911020
📚 The Lamb Will Slaughter the Lion -https://bookshop.org/a/109212/9780765397362
📚 We Won't Be Here Tomorrow: And Other Stories -https://bookshop.org/a/109212/9781958911020
remember purchasing from this link kicks a little back to us as well!
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OTHER MENTIONED MEDIA:
📚 The Dawn of Everything: A New History of Humanity: https://bookshop.org/a/109212/9780374157357
📚 Said the Pot to the Kettle: Feminist Theory for Anarchist Men: https://azinelibrary.org/approved/said-pot-kettle-1.pdf
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