On the Road with Penguin Classics Eliot's Book of Bookish Lists – Christmas Special 2022
Dec 1, 2022
Dive into a whimsical world where literary trivia reigns supreme! Discover the quirky kingdom of Redonda and its eccentric claimants. Explore James Joyce's 'Finnegan's Wake' through its fascinating 'thunder words.' Unravel the absurdities of lists with Borges and meet charming authors with peculiar habits. Laugh at the intertwining tales of Christmas carols and the introduction of starlings by a Shakespearean enthusiast. It's an enchanting mix of humor and literary insight sure to delight any book lover!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Barthes's Likes and Dislikes
- Roland Barthes's book Roland Barthes by Roland Barthes includes a list of likes and dislikes.
- This seemingly trivial list reveals a "bodily enigma," expressing personality through preferences.
History of Footnote Markers
- Footnote markers have a rich history, originating from ancient Alexandria.
- The first editorial mark was the obelisk (little roasting spit), followed by the asterisk.
Kings and Queens of Redonda
- The uninhabited Caribbean island Redonda has a quirky history of claimed kingship.
- Authors like M.P. Shiel and Javier Marías claimed the title, granting titles to their friends.