Alas Vine & Hitchens Piggy, Lady Chatterley’s Lover and the late Leon Trotsky
Nov 19, 2025
Delve into the riveting legacy of Leon Trotsky and the chilling story of his assassination by Ramón Mercader. The hosts debate the appropriateness of using the term 'piggy' in political discourse, particularly reflecting on Trump's controversial comments. Explore how insults in modern politics contribute to tribalism and division, while examining the cultural impact of misogyny. The discussion extends to literature, featuring Welsh authors and insights on Lady Chatterley’s Lover. Discover favorite fictional characters and recommended reading that enrich this engaging conversation.
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The Assassin Who Killed Trotsky
- Peter Hitchens describes reading Leonardo Padura's The Man Who Loved Dogs and learning the assassin Ramón Mercader's story.
- He recounts Mercader's infiltration, the ice-axe attack on Trotsky, and Mercader's later life and burial in Moscow under a false name.
Why Stalin Wanted Trotsky Dead
- Peter Hitchens argues Stalin targeted Trotsky because Trotsky was his principal rival and knew damaging secrets.
- He explains Stalin first used Trotsky as a tool, then eliminated him once rivals were purged.
Trotskyism's Enduring Intellectual Appeal
- Peter Hitchens describes Trotskyism as a movement that rejected the Soviet Union while refusing to accept responsibility for its failures.
- He notes Trotsky’s writing appealed to the educated and influenced figures like Orwell.
