Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford Presenting Heavyweight: Etta
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Nov 25, 2025 In a heartfelt narrative, a son named Gregor grapples with the challenge of moving his aging parents from their cluttered Victorian home. The podcast delves into his mother Etta's passion for collecting unique bottles and transforming everyday objects into art. As family tensions rise, humorous attempts at hypnosis and a creative 'museum' plan emerge. The stakes intensify as Etta faces a health crisis, leading to poignant moments of letting go and acceptance that highlight the deep emotional ties to both family and belongings.
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Packed Victorian And Rising Risk
- Gregor describes his parents Etta and Milt living in a three-story Victorian packed with Etta's art and collections.
- He worries the clutter and stairs will become dangerous as they approach 90.
A Collector Who Makes Art From Anything
- Etta collects thousands of objects and turns found items into art, filling the living room.
- Gregor fears falls and other hazards in the cluttered house with many stairs.
Art That Preaches Letting Go
- Etta's bottles bear handwritten riddles urging letting go, yet she hoards them.
- The bottles create a paradox: art that preaches release but anchors her to possessions.