EconTalk Joe Posnanski on the Life and Afterlife of Harry Houdini
Dec 23, 2019
Joe Posnanski, a renowned journalist and author, dives into the captivating life of Harry Houdini. He explores Houdini's lasting legacy as a symbol of escape and creativity, and reflects on the nature of celebrity and ambition. The conversation touches on the emotional journey of writing and the pursuit of immortality, revealing how public relations crafted Houdini's reputation. Personal anecdotes emphasize the importance of embracing wonder, while comparisons to contemporary street performers highlight the thrill of danger in artistic expression.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Houdini's Ubiquity
- Houdini's name is used to describe escapes, from criminals slipping handcuffs to dogs escaping yards.
- This shows his impact, even though he died in 1926.
Public Perception of Houdini
- Most people, when asked, identify Houdini as the greatest magician of all time.
- However, they often mistakenly believe he died young, performing a failed trick.
Houdini's Skill Level
- Modern magicians acknowledge Houdini's fame but consider his magic skills second-rate.
- This contrast highlights the difference between popularity and technical skill.
