
The New Yorker: Poetry
Erica Jong Reads John Updike
Jul 19, 2017
Erica Jong and the host explore John Updike's 'The City Outside,' discussing his transition in poetry style, shared fears of falling and flying, and the influence of beauty and sorrow in poetry. They also analyze poems by Jong and Updike, offering recommendations for further reading.
24:01
Episode guests
AI Summary
Highlights
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- John Updike's shift in tone towards a profound and somber style due to illness showcased his thematic depth and resilience.
- The mutual respect and literary connection between John Updike and Erica Jong enriched their relationship, touching on shared fears and appreciation for each other's work.
Deep dives
Exploring John Updike's Poem 'The City Outside'
In a conversation about John Updike's poem 'The City Outside,' the podcast delves into Updike's shift in tone as he faced cancer, contrasting his usual light and witty style with a more profound and somber approach. Erica Jong, reflecting on Updike's correspondence with her, highlights how his poetry evolved during his illness, maintaining wit and humor while confronting mortality. Updike's descriptive phrases like 'infertive, semi-bachelorhood' and his poetic contemplation on mortality and perspective showcase his thematic depth and resilience in facing death.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.