Welcome  to the Lightning Room, where DeWitt Brinson & Simon Jacobs take turns asking PANK authors extremely difficult questions about their work.

“Self Portrait,” by Lena Bertone – a story written in mirrorings – showed up in our April issue. To celebrate, Simon and Lena discuss narcissism.

1. What is the most narcissistic piece of artwork you’ve ever seen?

I love that Frida Kahlo’s relentless self-portraits feel so self-indulgent, yet they’re so vibrant and full of pain and story. I love her painting of her sitting next to herself, holding hands with herself, both of her hearts exposed.

2. “Self Portrait” has a marvelous, reflective quality to it – what was the first image or line that struck you to begin writing it?

The first line was the first line—I liked the idea that Leo’s wife would be disturbed that he painted himself as a woman. He promises he hasn’t done it before, but he doesn’t promise that he won’t do it again. Continue reading →