A Psalm for the Wild-Built

Chambers dedicates A Psalm for the WildBuilt “for anybody who could use a break” and begins the first chapter with Dex’s feelings of burnout (“Sometimes, a person reaches a point in their life when it becomes absolutely essential to get the fuck out of the city.”). How has burnout affected you in recent years? Can you relate to Dex’s feelings about the city and their need to get out?

During their first experience as a tea monk, Sibling Dex realizes quickly that, although they look like they know what they’re doing, they are lost in how to conduct themself and help the person who has sought them out. Was there ever a time you had to feign confidence or knowledge to seem like you knew what you were doing (“fake it till you make it”)?

Crickets and bears are two prominently featured animals in A Psalm for the WildBuilt. Crickets can be known to represent good fortune or luck, while bears can be known to represent strength, family, vitality, courage and health. Why do you think Chambers selected these two animals in particular? Were there other creatures that stood out to you?

While discussing whether or not to leave the road to collect water—and disturb ecosystems in the process—Sibling Dex argues that “Everybody thinks they’re the exception to the rule, and that’s exactly where the trouble starts. One person can do a lot of damage.” What are your thoughts on Dex’s statement? In response, Mosscap states, “Sometimes, damage is unavoidable.” Do you agree or disagree with Mosscap? Why?

Mosscap brings Dex to the ruins of the metal building and they discuss the evolutionary remnants each carries from previous generations. Mosscap, a fear of the factories that once existed, and Dex, a fear of the algae in the river. “Remnants are powerful things. Hard to ignore.” Both know they have the “sense and the tools” to realize the fears are foolish. Are there “evolutionary remnants” that humans have today? Is there one you’ve experienced in your life specifically?

Throughout the last half of the novella, what moments of connection and growth did you find most compelling in Dex and Mosscap’s blossoming friendship? Was it a minor moment or a larger one that you related to?