If Books Could Kill

Thomas Chatterton Williams' "Summer of Our Discontent"

92 snips
Sep 11, 2025
Dive into a controversial examination of race and identity as the hosts discuss a mixed-race author challenging societal categorizations. They navigate the socio-political landscape following George Floyd’s death and the rise of movements like Black Lives Matter. There’s a humorous take on societal beauty standards, and they tackle the complexities of diversity initiatives amid political polarization. The conversation also criticizes cancel culture, media representation, and the evolving nature of public discourse, highlighting the fatigue felt by activists in today's fragmented society.
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INSIGHT

Chatterton's Core Claim And Its Appeal

  • Thomas Chatterton Williams frames 2020 uproar as a left-driven illiberal turn that alienated ordinary people.
  • The hosts argue his influence exceeds his analytical merits and that he appeals to reactionary centrists.
ANECDOTE

The Ratajkowski Interview Example

  • Peter and Michael read and mock an Emily Ratajkowski interview Chatterton wrote for a French magazine.
  • The excerpt shows leering, awkward prose and highlights his problematic tone toward women.
INSIGHT

Style Undermines Substance

  • The hosts repeatedly call out Williams' dense, overstuffed prose as a major distraction from his arguments.
  • Poor prose makes it hard to evaluate his claims and weakens his credibility.
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