7: Bret Easton Ellis - The Dark Laureate of Generation X
Sep 30, 2019
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Bret Easton Ellis reflects on LA, Gen X vs. Millennials' childhood notions, dark LA stories, and wild '80s nights. They discuss societal narratives, political realities, generational dynamics, and art/fashion shifts. Exploring trust, transparency, and societal values among different generations.
Growing up in LA offers a unique blend of freedom and inspiration from diverse environments like beaches and deserts.
Los Angeles embodies a paradoxical charm, with luxurious settings alongside gritty neighborhoods like Venice and Melrose.
The episode discusses the cultural shifts from the 60s to the 70s and the influence of Gen X and the intellectual dark web.
Challenges faced by institutions like Harvard and Stanford in redefining their focus and aligning goals amidst societal divisions and political upheavals.
Deep dives
The Influence of Los Angeles as the Home of the Entertainment Industry
Los Angeles, as the epicenter of the entertainment industry, has a unique influence on global culture. The city's iconic streets and settings have become ingrained in the minds of people worldwide through movies and TV shows, shaping the ethos and narratives of screenwriters. Despite the globalization of the entertainment business, LA remains a central hub where creativity thrives, fueled by its diverse environments like beaches, hillsides, and deserts.
The Creative Inspiration of Los Angeles for Writers and Artists
Los Angeles is described as a creatively suggestive place that activates the minds of writers and artists. The city's varied landscapes and constant mobility offer a sense of freedom and inspiration. Growing up in LA evokes a unique mix of possibilities and freedom, especially for young individuals who have easy access to diverse environments like beaches, mountains, and deserts, fostering a creative mindset.
The Dark Underbelly and Contradictions of Los Angeles
Beneath the facade of beauty and glamour in Los Angeles lies a dark underbelly and contradictions that define the city. From the juxtaposition of luxurious settings to seedy locations like Skid Row, LA embodies a paradoxical charm. The city's mix of high-end establishments alongside gritty neighborhoods like Venice and Melrose creates a thrilling and unique atmosphere, reflecting a blend of light and darkness.
Navigating the Cultural Shifts and Political Dynamics
The episode delves into the cultural shifts and political dynamics in Los Angeles and beyond, highlighting the transition from the 60s to the 70s and the impact on society. It discusses the influence of Gen X and the emergence of new paradigms like the intellectual dark web. The conversation touches on the dichotomy between public narratives and private truths, exploring societal divisions and reactions to political upheavals.
The Influence of Institutions and the Embedded Growth Obligation
In this episode, the discussion revolves around how various institutions, such as Harvard and Stanford, can turn into Ponzi schemes due to an embedded growth obligation. This obligation hinders the institutions from addressing key issues effectively, such as strategizing to beat Trump without compromising the interests of certain elite individuals like those with multiple homes in the Hamptons. The conversation delves into the challenges these institutions face in redefining their focus and aligning their goals.
Generational Dynamics: Gen X's Role and Interactions with Millennials
The conversation delves into the unique role of Generation X in relation to the shifts in societal dynamics. It contrasts the perspectives of Gen X with those of millennials, highlighting differences in approaches to critical thinking, empathy, and communication. The episode underscores the complexities of intergenerational interactions, particularly in addressing sensitive topics like inclusivity, diversity, and the evolving norms in art and culture.
Navigating Cultural Evolution and Societal Challenges
The episode addresses the shifts in cultural norms, particularly in areas like fashion, literature, and entertainment. It explores the impact of transparency and inclusivity on traditional notions of exclusivity and mystery. The conversation touches on the evolving nature of art and expression, emphasizing the importance of critical feeling alongside critical thinking. It also delves into the challenges posed by cancel culture, social media dynamics, and the role of empathy in fostering meaningful societal dialogue.
Eric sits down with Bret Easton Ellis; the two Gen X’ers graduated from rival high schools in a disaffected 1982 Los Angeles that inspired Ellis’ first novel “Less Than Zero”. In this conversation, they reflect on LA, Generation X, and the different notions of childhood held by Gen x and Millennials.
