Lovely, Dark, Deep: Stories by Joyce Carol Oates is a haunting collection of short stories that pairs perfectly with introspective cannabis sessions, offering a deep dive into the darker aspects of human nature and emotion.
Welcome to this week’s edition of the Cannabis Book Review Club! For those lighting up with us, this session’s feature is Lovely, Dark, Deep: Stories by the legendary Joyce Carol Oates. Whether you’re sparking a joint or settling in with an edible, we’re diving into the deeply unsettling, psychologically intense world of Oates’ short stories—a collection perfect for those looking to get lost in a mix of heightened emotions and profound thought.
First Impressions
For those unfamiliar with Oates’ work, be prepared: she doesn’t shy away from the uncomfortable. The stories in Lovely, Dark, Deep: Stories explore some of the most complex and taboo aspects of human nature—aging, mortality, guilt, memory loss, and betrayal. In many ways, these stories hit harder when paired with a cannabis session, where each emotion and subtle narrative twist feels amplified. Oates’ writing already carries an intense emotional weight, and when you’re high, it’s almost as if the words breathe off the page.
As a group, we had a mix of opinions—some of us found the stories deeply captivating, while others admitted they were heavier than anticipated for a laid-back smoke sesh. But one thing was universally agreed upon: Oates’ ability to get under your skin and force you to reflect on life’s darker realities is nothing short of genius.
Standout Stories
Two stories in particular sparked the most conversation during our weekly meet-up. First up was the title story, Lovely, Dark, Deep: Stories. It’s a tale of an aging poet coming to terms with betrayal, regret, and ultimately, her own mortality. Some of us couldn’t help but get a little philosophical—how cannabis often makes us more introspective and helps us confront parts of ourselves that we might otherwise ignore. This story, with its existential musings, pairs perfectly with an indica strain that lulls you into a state of deep reflection.
The second standout was The Jesters, which is classic Oates—psychologically unsettling, to say the least. A seemingly innocent reunion between two old friends spirals into a deeply uncomfortable exploration of power dynamics and memory. One member of our club described reading this story high as “like watching a slow-motion car crash—you can’t look away, even though you know something bad is coming.” A perfect pairing for a sativa strain, which keeps you alert and on edge, fully engaged with the tension Oates masterfully builds.
Oates and Cannabis: A Thoughtful Pairing
What makes Lovely, Dark, Deep: Stories such a fitting pick for a cannabis book club is the way Oates manipulates perception. Much like how cannabis can alter your experience of time, space, and emotion, Oates’ stories transport you into unsettling mental spaces that feel both familiar and otherworldly. The pacing of each story invites the reader to sit with uncomfortable emotions—a sensation some of us likened to that deep thought spiral cannabis can sometimes induce.
For our cannabis-friendly crew, these stories weren’t just reading material—they were an experience. Whether the characters were grappling with their past or facing their inner demons, many of us found the emotional intensity heightened by the cannabis, allowing us to feel each character’s struggle on a more visceral level. Some of the stories felt like a long, contemplative high—slow and reflective—while others had the jarring effect of a sudden mind shift, like a hit of sativa that comes out of nowhere.
Final Thoughts From the Club
In our post-session debrief, the consensus was that Lovely, Dark, Deep: Stories is a collection best suited for readers who aren’t afraid to delve into the darker aspects of the human condition. As one member put it, “It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you’re in the right mindset, it’s one hell of a trip.” For those who prefer lighter, escapist reads during their cannabis sessions, this might not be the right fit—but for those who like to explore the inner workings of the mind and soul, it’s a deeply rewarding experience.
Ultimately, we recommend pairing this book with a strain that matches your vibe. If you’re looking to get reflective and slow things down, go for a strong indica to help you sink into the emotions. For those wanting to stay alert and ride the tension, a cerebral sativa will keep you sharp as Oates pulls you deeper into her stories.
Next Week’s Pick
For those who enjoyed the emotional and psychological deep dive, we’ll be taking on Ottessa Moshfegh’s My Year of Rest and Relaxation next week—a story about a woman who attempts to hibernate her life away. Perfect for anyone interested in escapism and self-induced comas (while enjoying a real-life mellow high). Grab your favorite strain, and we’ll see you next week!
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GreenPharms is more than just a dispensary. We are a family-owned and operated company that cultivates, processes, and sells high-quality cannabis products in Arizona. Whether you are looking for medical or recreational marijuana, we have something for everyone. From flower, edibles, concentrates, and topicals, to accessories, apparel, and education, we offer a wide range of marijuana strains, products and services to suit your needs and preferences. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are always ready to assist you and answer any questions you may have. Visit our dispensaries in Mesa and Flagstaff, or shop online and get your order delivered to your door. At GreenPharms, we are cultivating a different kind of care.
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