Fiction v. Reality

103. Fiction as a Mirror for Anarchy and Faith Insights with Joseph Macolino

About this Episode

Join us as we embark on a captivating journey with Joseph Macolino, a masterful storyteller whose love for fantasy began in childhood. Joseph shares the evolution of his fictional universe, Evorath, and the tales that populate its thousand-year timeline. Drawing inspiration from literary giants like Tolkien and Orwell, Joseph crafts narratives that resonate deeply with themes of governmental skepticism and the pursuit of a society aligned with the teachings of Christ. His trilogy stands as a testament to the power of fiction in challenging our beliefs and illuminating the path to Christ's kingdom.

Throughout our conversation, we thread the needle between fiction and reality, exploring how the characters in Joseph’s fantasy series confront the winds of change, transitioning from a structured monarchy to a society where Christian anarchist principles reign supreme. This isn't just about creating another world; it's about challenging the status quo, questioning the reader's long-held beliefs, and presenting a tapestry of upheaval that resonates with both historical and contemporary political movements. The tales shared offer more than escapism - they invite introspection and boldly propose a life governed by faith rather than fear

Wrapping up our expedition into Evorath, we delve into the lives of characters who are as multidimensional as the world they inhabit. Villains reveal vulnerabilities and heroes grapple with the unforeseen repercussions of their deeds. Through them, we glimpse a society in flux—a monarchy giving way to a republic, and ultimately an anarchist community living out these principles. It's more than just a fantasy series; it's a reflection of libertarian turned anarchist ideology and the perennial quest for a harmonious existence. Join us for this imaginative and thought-provoking episode that's sure to provoke discussion and maybe even inspire a reevaluation of the way we view our world and the powers that govern it.

Connect with Joseph Macolino:

Episode Timestamps:

Timestamps:

01:08 Exploring Anarchy Through Fiction

  •  Introduction to Joseph Macolino, inspired by Tolkien and Orwell.

  • Creation of the fictional universe Evorath, developed from high school to college.

  • Joseph's trilogy explores themes of questioning government authority and discovering Christian principles.

12:35 Spreading Christian Anarchy Through Fiction

  • The intersection of fiction and Christian anarchism is highlighted.

  • Influence of various texts, maintaining a critical perspective.

  • Story arc in fantasy series depicts the transition from monarchy to an anarchist society, paralleling historical movements.

  • Aim to challenge preconceptions and promote Christian anarchism through storytelling.

19:59 Discussing Writing, Influence, and Christianity

  • Focus on Evorath's world-building, where humans are divinely created.

  • Discussion on media influence and personal experiences of non-conformity.

  • Importance of writers in highlighting societal propaganda and Christian resistance.

  • Emphasis on living according to Jesus' teachings despite potential opposition.

28:22 God Is Strategic

  • A personal anecdote about a significant encounter and the concept of divine timing.

  • Reflection on the creative process and progress in writing projects.

  • Introduction of the 'Bad Woman Project' and a call for support.

  • Teaser for the content of upcoming books without giving away specifics.

31:46 Expanding on Book Two Characters

  • Insight into Averath's characters, including the villain Yazook Stahl.

  • Exploration of shapeshifter species and character development.

  • Themes of power, corruption, and societal improvement are examined through character arcs.

39:46 Fantasy Series and Libertarian Ideology

  • Introduction of diverse races and characters in the third book.

  • Characters question tribal loyalties, leading to the formation of a new community.

  • Discussion on societal ideals, comparing the fictional society to voluntarism.

  • Upcoming books to delve into the complexities of a society striving for harmony post-trilogy.


Related Episodes

Related Blog Post

91. Breaking Down the Jones Plantation Film with Larken Rose

About this Episode

What would it look like if we peeled back the curtains of societal discourse and examined the bitter truths often swept under the rug? How would our perspectives shift if we truly understood the power dynamics that govern our world? In a dynamic and insightful discussion, the Bad Roman Project welcomes back Larken Rose to the podcast, as we delve into the thought-provoking themes presented in the Jones Plantation film. Our discussion centers around the film's potent representation of debt, enslavement, and the manipulative nature of political language.

In the latter part of our conversation, we admire the production brilliance behind the Jones Plantation film. From its low-budget brilliance to the unique concept of breaking the fourth wall, we explore how the movie engages its audience in a critical examination of the sociopolitical landscape. Echoing the ethos of the Bad Roman Podcast, we also discuss how the film encourages viewers to think independently, drawing their own conclusions and interpretations.

Finally, we reflect on the reactions to the Jones Plantation film and its potential long-term impact. We examine the significance of the film's symbolism and the truths it presents, prompting viewers to examine their beliefs and biases. As we dissect the captivating symbolism and raw truths embedded in the film, we invite you to join us in this compelling discourse. Prepare to be intrigued by Larken's insightful reflections and ready to engage in a conversation that promises to stir thought and stimulate dialogue.

Larken Rose:

The Most Dangerous Superstition 

YouTube

Candles in the Dark

Facebook

The Jones Plantation Film

The Book: https://www.thejonesplantation.com/

Episode Timestamps:

 01:04 Larken Rose 

  • Importance of recognizing what is required for peaceful coexistence

  • Podcasts, Joe Rogan, erosion of corporate media’s influence

4:45 Feedback from Nonanarchists on The Jones Plantation (2023)

  • Mr. Smith in the movie equates slaves to livestock

    • Herd mentality, IRS example

  • Jones Plantation Novel

  • How easy are people to exploit?

9:19 Church Imagery in Movie

  • Was it intentional?

  • Any ideology (including religion) could be weaponized to control populations

  • Mr. Smith acts as a (bad) minister

13:39 Casting 

  • Mariuce Johnson as Mr. Smith

  • The cast had not met until the shoot started 

14:59 Larken’s Role(s) in the film

  • Police Officer, bank teller

  • Keeping People in Debt

  • Proverbs 22:7  

  • Covid and Obedience

  • The Federal Reserve System

  • Political parasites on money

20:49 Murder of the Child in the Movie (spoiler alert)

  • Plantation owners’ anger than acceptance and embrace of it

  • False Flags

  • When things go wrong psychopaths can grab power

  • The state gets its power from your suffering

  • Celebrity Response to Maui Fire

    • The purpose of giving is to be of service not show people how great you are

  • Importance of having workers’ perspective in Jone’s Plantation

    • What discussions are had behind closed doors?

    • How far will people go for power?

28:46 Dissecting the Political Capmgim Scenes in the Film

  • Backroom meeting

  • Parallels to a real Election Processes 

  • Theatre of opposition

  • Was Obama truly grassroots?

  • #votejones

35:52 Examing the Beating of Samuel in the Film

  • “The harder you struggle the tighter your chains become”

  • Danger of the fear-based crowd

  • Would you be on the right side?

40:20 Bad Roman Discussion Group Questions

  • Why break the fourth wall?

  • How much was planned v. happy accidents via budget constraints?

    • Andrew as “the department”

  • Biblical relevance to Samuel on purpose?

  • Explain the self-flogging scene

    • What we see people do can vary greatly from what they do when no one is looking

  • Was the cast all on board with the ideas of the movie? 

  • What has the feedback been?

1:00:00 Where to find the film and connect with Larken Rose


Related Episodes

Related Blog Post