Spectator Out Loud: Svitlana Morenets, Mary Wakefield, Max Jeffery, Sam Leith and Richard Bratby
Apr 20, 2024
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Guests discuss urgent need for Western support for Ukraine, slow response to Ministry of Defence vandalism, Youth Demand protest tactics, Salman Rushdie's new book, and pay tribute to Michael Tanner in this week's episode.
Ukraine urgently needs improved air defense systems to counter Russian threats, highlighting the disparity in protection compared to Israel.
Youth Demand, influenced by Extinction Rebellion, employs disruptive tactics to address weapon sales, attracting part-time activists seeking purpose.
Deep dives
Ukraine's Defense Challenges Compared to Israel
Israel's effective air defense against Iran's drones and missiles highlights the disparity in protection as Ukraine struggles with defense challenges. With allies like the US and UK, Ukraine aims for improved defense systems to counter Russian attacks, emphasizing the urgent need for additional air defenses.
Youth Demand: Protest Tactics and Motivations
Youth Demand, inspired by activism groups like Extinction Rebellion, use disruptive tactics to address issues like weapon sales to Israel. Their demonstrations, rooted in historical movements, attract part-time activists seeking a sense of purpose and a temporary escape.
Salman Rushdie's Response to Attempted Murder
After surviving an attempted assassination, Salman Rushdie confronts the attack in his book 'Knife'. Detailing the attack's physical and mental impact, he navigates recovery and reflects on the significance of art in responding to violence.
Tribute to Michael Tanner's Opera Criticism Legacy
Michael Tanner's opera criticism is praised for its clarity and profound analysis, challenging traditional musicology with accessible insights. Tanner's love for drama in opera and his dedication to distinguishing good art from mediocrity leave a lasting impact on the field, emphasizing the importance of honest and stimulating critique.
On this week’s Spectator Out Loud: In light of the help Israel received, Svitlana Morenets issues a challenge to the West to help Ukraine (1:15); Mary Wakefield questions the slow response to the Ministry of Defence being daubed in paint (7:33); Max Jeffery discusses the aims and tactics of the group responsible for the protest, Youth Demand (13:25); Sam Leith reviews Salman Rushdie's new book (18:59); and Richard Bratby pays tribute to Michael Tanner, The Spectator critic who died earlier this month (27:34).
Produced and presented by Patrick Gibbons.
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