

The Marx Brothers w/ James Matthew Wilson
Feb 18, 2025
James Matthew Wilson, a poet and philosopher with a creative writing program at the University of St. Thomas, dives deep into the world of the Marx Brothers. He discusses their iconic films, 'Duck Soup' and 'A Night at the Opera,' highlighting their revolutionary impact on comedy. Listeners are treated to a poem featuring Marx Brothers’ allusions and insights into Groucho's correspondence with T.S. Eliot. Wilson reflects on the interplay of humor, heart, and absurdity, emphasizing the relevance of their unique style in contemporary culture and personal experiences.
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Intro
00:00 • 2min
The Enduring Legacy of the Marx Brothers
02:18 • 25min
Exploring Absurdity: Parallels Between Film Comedies and Children’s Literature
27:07 • 3min
The Timeless Comedy of the Marx Brothers
30:14 • 17min
The Marx Brothers: Humor and Heart in Times of Crisis
47:37 • 12min
The Humor and Heart of the Marx Brothers
01:00:02 • 15min
The Creative Process Behind the Marx Brothers' Comedy
01:14:47 • 3min