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I have been a longtime fan of Dr. Verghese's novels and a lifetime fan of Oprah. I was thrilled when you picked the Covenant of Water as an Oprah book but seeing this six-part special has been truly transformative. The book transcended into new heights for me with this podcast. I am so grateful but so sad that it has ended. I would love to hear you discuss other books together in the future!!
Oh, How I enjoyed this book. My first thought was, OMG, 715 pages, I'll never be able to finish this, but one month it took me, reading right before I went to bed every night, I'd spend the last hour of my day in Parambil. Was my favorite part of ending my day, wrapped up in the lives of Parambil. I was brought to tears when Abraham read the ending, as I had tears when I had read the ending on my own. Powerful book, I too felt as though I was there alongside everyone at various times. As I was approaching the end, I felt that the book was not long enough, and was saddened when I had finished it.
Thank you, Abraham, for stepping up. Some nurses and doctors see it as beneath them to do such a job, but it isn't. I change poopie sheets on a daily basis, and if you don't love your job or your patients/residents, you cannot do it. It is truly an honour to serve in this manner. It's a learning experience and allows you to reflect.
I had a sense that Elsie was not deceased and would reappear. I NEVER could have imagined THAT, however. AND, I assumed that Digby was captured by Mariamma’s beauty, NOT that he was awe struck to be looking at his daughter (car ride). Deep bow to Dr. Abraham Verghese ! A truly magnificent saga ✨💖
This was a beautiful episode and I am just so saddened that I have finished the book. I am sad to leave the world of The Covenant. I finished it a week or so ago but I can't even imagine reading another book. What could top this masterpiece? The characters have become part of me and I yearn to love as they do. Thank you, Oprah & Abraham. I'm so happy that it will be on the screen to come to life for all of us.
I am feeling the same way! I am part of a book club and happened to choose this one on my own. I can’t imagine reading anything else that is being recommended because I already know that nothing will top this.
Thanks immensely for this lovely journey with you two and the Covenant Of Water! My life will never be the same again and this definitely reaffirms my FAITH & COMPASSION!
Thank you so much, Abraham and Oprah, for this uplifting journey. The way this magnificent novel changed me was on some kind of molecular level; something has been rearranged which more simply put means my heart was/is more open. The daughter and her mother’s hands coming together at the window reminded me that space and time are truly an illusion and Love always abides. Always.
Thanks Miss Oprah and Dr Varghese for this in depth and interesting series on The Covenant Of Water. Really enjoyed it and was so amazed at the questions from the readers . I have seen Oprah go through so many phases of her life which she shared with us and this novel truly did something to/for her. Love you both.
This podcast series was beautiful. I enjoyed this book. Thank you Oprah for introducing us to this novel. Thank you Mr. Verghese for sharing your gift.
Thank you Oprah for being such a vessel and a lens through which light comes to mankind . Thank you for also being a shining light as much as you can. Peace.
I love hearing the author read his work, to hear the voices he hears. Makes me now want to listen to the audiobook. Thank you both for your time, thoughts and conversation about this gripping story. Sharing thoughts about it makes the story all the richer.
❤somehow this podcast showed up on my timeline. I was immediately taken by the first episode. I had never heard of the book or it’s author, but found myself unable to leave the following of the podcast. I’m sure the book is phenomenal, Oprah Winfrey has it as her book club choice! At the end of this last episode these two were brought to tears, over the book. I on the other hand was brought to tears because Dr. Verghese has embodied the life I’ve imagined for myself. I’m an author, but also a mother and student. My marriage is falling apart and my heart breaks at times. I often wondered, would I EVER finish this book? So, while the podcast was about the book, I was enthralled by Dr. Verghese and his ability to fit so much into his life. And very well, I might add. So thank you both for the work that you have done, not only with this podcast but in life. Thank you for exemplifying what it means to live out your full potential! My faith in my own abilities has now been strengthened! Blessings 🙏🏽
I'm sorry to hear about your marriage and heart break.. thank you for sharing. Crazy how you stumbled upon the series and how much you relate to Dr. Verghese, I'm curious how you're doing and how your book is going since you wrote this 11 months ago. Blessings to you!
I agree with Opera. In her reply about how this book has changed her life: “A book that has altered the way she says herself and how she sees her life… more awakened and alert. Live differently and love differently. “ Each time I hear one of Oprah’s conversations with spiritual masters or read their books, I feel the same way with a certain degree of change to a different view of life and always grateful for that. However, this book was a quantum leap and felt more real than ever. I’m so happy to hear that Oprah is considering turning it into screen. I'm a screenwriter and was hoping that screenwriters from outside the US get a chance to adapt this phenomenal book too.
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you for doing this! I followed along as I read the book and what an amazing experience this has been. I can't wait to see it come to the big screen! Dr. Verghese, you're amazing!
I discovered Dr Verghese is friends with my friend Fesseha A. I have a great idea for another book. Involves Ethiopia, polio, incest, redemption, God. Thank you for your books. I have sobbed my way through all four of them. And I love these interviews
I love this-- the spiritual energy of love, and the potential to drop you, and "that you have to transcend it, and love the soul". The end of the book is so powerful, such a tribute to that deep love of the soul, and his gift to Mariamma is that the father loves the mother.
I am moved and grateful to have shared this discussion of this magnificent with the author and Oprah. It’s leading me to read it all over again so that I can breathe in the details so much more clearly now. thank you
I loved The Covenant of Water. but I go to Cutting for Stone for my favorite male character in the literature that I have read so far in my 75 years: Dr. Abhi Ghosh. I feel so blessed to have read these beautifully written and inspirational. stories by Abraham Verghese.
I've been blown away by this novel. My favourite read of this year for certain. I studied in Addis Abeba, so I'm really curious about Cutting for Stone now. Definitely gonna read that this year..
@36:06 - 36:38 Wow I wasn’t expecting this! This is going to create so many jobs for South Asian/Indian creatives. I would love to see Simone Ashley (“Bridgerton”, “The Little Mermaid” 2023) play Elsie. I think she could really bring Elsie’s many layers.
What a beautiful podcast! I finished the book yesterday and it took me through a beautiful journey. Listening to some insight from the author was amazing. I have read Cutting for Stone and also loved it. Thank you for doing these podcasts!!!
Thank you for writing about the strength of women and the sensitivity of men, a stunning read that took me away from my phone and screens, to dive into the imagination of your book 🙏
Thank you Oprah for bringing the book to the forefront. In the midst of so much ugliness in life, it has been such a refreshing journey as you and Abraham discuss the book.
Loved the book and the podcasts. I just want to add about the ending, and Dr. Verghese's comment that Digby had fallen in love with a beautiful woman, but knew she wouldn't remain beautiful. I think he had already fallen in love with her soul, when she was a child helping him with his drawing. His love was not purely a physical one, though he was surprised that it included that when he met her again. At that time it was loneliness that brought them together.
This was such a wonderful series of podcasts period I really hope that you two will do another series on Cutting for Stone. That is probably my favorite book of all time!
I was not shocked that Philipose wasn’t her father. I suspected that Philipose wasn’t her father. I feel there were clues along the way. I wasn’t certain but, I surely wondered if Elsie was with another man while away. The thought had crossed my mind. I was however shocked about where Elsie was and why she left.
Same here! I knew the way Philippe’s described her body when they had intercourse that one time that she was already pregnant. I was shocked to know that Philippe’s knew he wasn’t the father though
Wait a minute. Am I hearing her right? Did Oprah really not know that Philips wasn't Mariamma's biological father until she read it in his journal? (15:50 & 18:00) What?! It was made quite clear to the reader as soon as Elise returned from her father's house to see Baby Mol, who was sick.
I watched all six episodes of this podcast to find the answer to, possibly, the only question left unanswered in this incredible book. Why did Philipose get on the train and head to Madras? Why? Also, Oprah, please could you kindly ensure that the Malayali & Tamil culture, tradition and lands described in the book are preserved if this show comes to the screen.
Because he knew Elsie is alive from the moment he saw the sculpture photo in the catalog cover in the hotel lobby.. The work looked exactly like the works of Elsie and catalog had the Estate sale contents from Madras . So he boarded to find out the truth.
Now in chapter 10 when we discover that Elsie is there with Digby and has leprosy, that was a shocking revelation. That I did not see coming! Whew weeeee, I had to put the book down for a bit! Wow! I was shocked.
I love SRK, but hope that they won't cast SRK for this role because South Indians hate when SRK acts as a South Indian. I personally feel like they should cast malayali actors not only because they know nuance of the culture better than anyone else but also because they are the ones who are doing these type of films in India.
Page 424 - why such Anguish..? Why is it so important to leave whats is it Elsie..? This isn't about Ninan .Author breaks the biggest clue here about future of the novel . Philipose thinks about another person in Elsies life , some readers also think like Philipose
![[DOKKAN BATTLE] August Producer's Letter](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/JUTYpaV_4Ic/mqdefault.jpg)
Want to watch more of OWN's shows? The network is available via most cable providers, the Watch OWN app, Discovery+, and other major streaming services. Click here to learn more on where to find OWN: www.oprah.com/sp/watch-own.html
How can I get information about the movie casting?
These two need to do a show or podcast. Hope it’s not the end. They are a powerhouse and I’m so sad it’s over. Change has come over me
They just did!
I have been a longtime fan of Dr. Verghese's novels and a lifetime fan of Oprah. I was thrilled when you picked the Covenant of Water as an Oprah book but seeing this six-part special has been truly transformative. The book transcended into new heights for me with this podcast. I am so grateful but so sad that it has ended. I would love to hear you discuss other books together in the future!!
Oh, How I enjoyed this book. My first thought was, OMG, 715 pages, I'll never be able to finish this, but one month it took me, reading right before I went to bed every night, I'd spend the last hour of my day in Parambil. Was my favorite part of ending my day, wrapped up in the lives of Parambil. I was brought to tears when Abraham read the ending, as I had tears when I had read the ending on my own. Powerful book, I too felt as though I was there alongside everyone at various times. As I was approaching the end, I felt that the book was not long enough, and was saddened when I had finished it.
Loved the audio book. He reads so beautifully
Thank you, Abraham, for stepping up. Some nurses and doctors see it as beneath them to do such a job, but it isn't. I change poopie sheets on a daily basis, and if you don't love your job or your patients/residents, you cannot do it. It is truly an honour to serve in this manner. It's a learning experience and allows you to reflect.
I am in love with this genius sensitive man ❤
I'm so glad you will be the protector of this story as it is brought to the screen. Thank you.
I had a sense that Elsie was not deceased and would reappear. I NEVER could have imagined THAT, however.
AND, I assumed that Digby was captured by Mariamma’s beauty, NOT that he was awe struck to be looking at his daughter (car ride).
Deep bow to Dr. Abraham Verghese ! A truly magnificent saga ✨💖
Reading it for the second time. Thank you both for bringing this epic novel to life.
This was a beautiful episode and I am just so saddened that I have finished the book. I am sad to leave the world of The Covenant. I finished it a week or so ago but I can't even imagine reading another book. What could top this masterpiece? The characters have become part of me and I yearn to love as they do. Thank you, Oprah & Abraham. I'm so happy that it will be on the screen to come to life for all of us.
I am feeling the same way! I am part of a book club and happened to choose this one on my own. I can’t imagine reading anything else that is being recommended because I already know that nothing will top this.
Thank you for providing a space for us to delve deeper into this amazing novel! I have enjoyed this journey.
Thanks immensely for this lovely journey with you two and the Covenant Of Water! My life will never be the same again and this definitely reaffirms my FAITH & COMPASSION!
Thank you so much, Abraham and Oprah, for this uplifting journey. The way this magnificent novel changed me was on some kind of molecular level; something has been rearranged which more simply put means my heart was/is more open. The daughter and her mother’s hands coming together at the window reminded me that space and time are truly an illusion and Love always abides. Always.
All these episodes were great. You at your finest Dame Opray
Done with the episodes, and I will go get the book. Thank you Dr and Ms O. I am changed forever
Hey from South Africa.. So sad that the podcast had to end. I'm not much of a reader, but I want to need this book! Must read it❤
Thanks Miss Oprah and Dr Varghese for this in depth and interesting series on The Covenant Of Water. Really enjoyed it and was so amazed at the questions from the readers . I have seen Oprah go through so many phases of her life which she shared with us and this novel truly did something to/for her. Love you both.
This podcast series was beautiful. I enjoyed this book. Thank you Oprah for introducing us to this novel. Thank you Mr. Verghese for sharing your gift.
You both have blessings and grace from God. Wonderful episode and thank you Oprah and Dr. Varghese for the good work you do for humanity.
Thank you Oprah for being such a vessel and a lens through which light comes to mankind .
Thank you for also being a shining light as much as you can.
Peace.
Medicine is about service and respectful love and compassion. Thank you for modeling it!
I love hearing the author read his work, to hear the voices he hears. Makes me now want to listen to the audiobook. Thank you both for your time, thoughts and conversation about this gripping story. Sharing thoughts about it makes the story all the richer.
Are you kidding me? How brainwashed are you?
❤somehow this podcast showed up on my timeline. I was immediately taken by the first episode. I had never heard of the book or it’s author, but found myself unable to leave the following of the podcast. I’m sure the book is phenomenal, Oprah Winfrey has it as her book club choice! At the end of this last episode these two were brought to tears, over the book. I on the other hand was brought to tears because Dr. Verghese has embodied the life I’ve imagined for myself. I’m an author, but also a mother and student. My marriage is falling apart and my heart breaks at times. I often wondered, would I EVER finish this book? So, while the podcast was about the book, I was enthralled by Dr. Verghese and his ability to fit so much into his life. And very well, I might add. So thank you both for the work that you have done, not only with this podcast but in life. Thank you for exemplifying what it means to live out your full potential! My faith in my own abilities has now been strengthened! Blessings 🙏🏽
I'm sorry to hear about your marriage and heart break.. thank you for sharing. Crazy how you stumbled upon the series and how much you relate to Dr. Verghese, I'm curious how you're doing and how your book is going since you wrote this 11 months ago. Blessings to you!
Yay...can't wait for the screen adaptation
Thank you for taking me on this incredible journey🎉
What a human being is doctor Abraham 😢 I cried every time he did reading his own book . I am going to buy the book thank you Oprah for all you do 🙏🙏🙏
I agree with Opera. In her reply about how this book has changed her life:
“A book that has altered the way she says herself and how she sees her life… more awakened and alert. Live differently and love differently. “
Each time I hear one of Oprah’s conversations with spiritual masters or read their books, I feel the same way with a certain degree of change to a different view of life and always grateful for that. However, this book was a quantum leap and felt more real than ever.
I’m so happy to hear that Oprah is considering turning it into screen. I'm a screenwriter and was hoping that screenwriters from outside the US get a chance to adapt this phenomenal book too.
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you for doing this! I followed along as I read the book and what an amazing experience this has been. I can't wait to see it come to the big screen! Dr. Verghese, you're amazing!
Have not read it yet.But could feel the power of the emotions through the sentences.Must be a glorious book that changes one's outlook on life.
I discovered Dr Verghese is friends with my friend Fesseha A. I have a great idea for another book. Involves Ethiopia, polio, incest, redemption, God. Thank you for your books. I have sobbed my way through all four of them. And I love these interviews
God bless you and thank you both!
I love this-- the spiritual energy of love, and the potential to drop you, and "that you have to transcend it, and love the soul". The end of the book is so powerful, such a tribute to that deep love of the soul, and his gift to Mariamma is that the father loves the mother.
I am moved and grateful to have shared this discussion of this magnificent with the author and Oprah. It’s leading me to read it all over again so that I can breathe in the details so much more clearly now. thank you
Thank you so much for putting this podcast on you tube, even though I read the book by listening made more understanding of the book.
I loved The Covenant of Water. but I go to Cutting for Stone for my favorite male character in the literature that I have read so far in my 75 years: Dr. Abhi Ghosh. I feel so blessed to have read these beautifully written and inspirational. stories by Abraham Verghese.
I've been blown away by this novel. My favourite read of this year for certain. I studied in Addis Abeba, so I'm really curious about Cutting for Stone now. Definitely gonna read that this year..
@36:06 - 36:38 Wow I wasn’t expecting this! This is going to create so many jobs for South Asian/Indian creatives. I would love to see Simone Ashley (“Bridgerton”, “The Little Mermaid” 2023) play Elsie. I think she could really bring Elsie’s many layers.
What a beautiful podcast! I finished the book yesterday and it took me through a beautiful journey. Listening to some insight from the author was amazing. I have read Cutting for Stone and also loved it. Thank you for doing these podcasts!!!
Thank you for this podcast 😊
Oprah sure has a way with words!!! her forte to look deep into the soul of a being ...ooening up a person she interviews ... remarkable talent💕
Oprah looks amazing..what a life journey
Thank you for writing about the strength of women and the sensitivity of men, a stunning read that took me away from my phone and screens, to dive into the imagination of your book 🙏
@whitebutterfly7966 Yes!
Thank you Oprah for bringing the book to the forefront. In the midst of so much ugliness in life, it has been such a refreshing journey as you and Abraham discuss the book.
Loved the book and the podcasts. I just want to add about the ending, and Dr. Verghese's comment that Digby had fallen in love with a beautiful woman, but knew she wouldn't remain beautiful. I think he had already fallen in love with her soul, when she was a child helping him with his drawing. His love was not purely a physical one, though he was surprised that it included that when he met her again. At that time it was loneliness that brought them together.
I am shaken, cried at the end
Such a perfectly beautiful conversation. A fitting end 🙏🏾💙
This was such a wonderful series of podcasts period I really hope that you two will do another series on Cutting for Stone. That is probably my favorite book of all time!
Devon Franklin can touch that book with his spirit. God is perfectly in this book.
❤❤❤
defintely worthwhile manymany thanks. Peace and blessings xx
I was not shocked that Philipose wasn’t her father. I suspected that Philipose wasn’t her father. I feel there were clues along the way. I wasn’t certain but, I surely wondered if Elsie was with another man while away. The thought had crossed my mind. I was however shocked about where Elsie was and why she left.
Same here! I knew the way Philippe’s described her body when they had intercourse that one time that she was already pregnant. I was shocked to know that Philippe’s knew he wasn’t the father though
@@TiffanyShelton Yes, I knew but I did not think Philipose knew.
Wait a minute. Am I hearing her right? Did Oprah really not know that Philips wasn't Mariamma's biological father until she read it in his journal? (15:50 & 18:00) What?! It was made quite clear to the reader as soon as Elise returned from her father's house to see Baby Mol, who was sick.
Beautiful podcast
I watched all six episodes of this podcast to find the answer to, possibly, the only question left unanswered in this incredible book. Why did Philipose get on the train and head to Madras? Why?
Also, Oprah, please could you kindly ensure that the Malayali & Tamil culture, tradition and lands described in the book are preserved if this show comes to the screen.
Because he knew Elsie is alive from the moment he saw the sculpture photo in the catalog cover in the hotel lobby.. The work looked exactly like the works of Elsie and catalog had the Estate sale contents from Madras . So he boarded to find out the truth.
I thought that was Stedman😂
😂😂😂you're funny but at first glance does kinda look like him🤣
Chapter ends 84 that adds to 12 just wow
Now in chapter 10 when we discover that Elsie is there with Digby and has leprosy, that was a shocking revelation. That I did not see coming! Whew weeeee, I had to put the book down for a bit! Wow! I was shocked.
For this book I will have to be a extremely special person to Produced the Covenant of Water@# Godbless you (it,s where you end up😂❤
So awesome that there will be a movie !! I kept envisioning Shahrukh Khan as philipose !
I love SRK, but hope that they won't cast SRK for this role because South Indians hate when SRK acts as a South Indian. I personally feel like they should cast malayali actors not only because they know nuance of the culture better than anyone else but also because they are the ones who are doing these type of films in India.
Can’t get my hands on this.
BARRY JENKINS!! He SHOULD be the director of the film based on this book!!
I started reading the Covenant of Water. But after what happened to Jojo I just cannot continue.😢
There will be more grief, so maybe it isn't the book for you.
@@MichelleIndianer I have continued and im captivated
hugz,rubz,grubz,& luvz
Page 424 - why such Anguish..? Why is it so important to leave whats is it Elsie..? This isn't about Ninan .Author breaks the biggest clue here about future of the novel . Philipose thinks about another person in Elsies life , some readers also think like Philipose
First
The devil herself
BS Hinju demonica.
The covenant of water? What a mockery of god.