Jonathan Lethem, a celebrated author known for his inventive storytelling, chats from his Maine home about his latest book, *Cellophane Bricks*. He shares quirky insights on life, from the joys of tomato sandwiches to amusing road trip tales of driving across the U.S. The conversation takes a turn into thought-provoking territory as Lethem reflects on the mundane aspects of creativity in the age of AI, and how nostalgic music exploration has changed over the years. His witty banter adds a delightful twist to the profound topics discussed.
The hosts contrast their experiences in New York's extreme urban heat with the more tolerable dry heat of Los Angeles, emphasizing the discomfort of summer living.
A humorous dialogue about luxury watches sparks reflections on celebrity culture, aesthetic values, and the differing opinions on beauty in everyday objects.
The conversation explores the evolving landscape of education and art engagement among students today, addressing the impact of AI on creativity and teaching methods.
Deep dives
The Struggles of Urban Heat
The hosts discuss the extreme heat in urban environments, particularly focusing on the discomfort experienced in New York City. One host details a frustrating walk to the barber, drenched in sweat, highlighting the challenges of moving around in high temperatures. The conversation touches upon their contrasting experiences in Los Angeles, which they describe as a more bearable dry heat. This sets the tone for a relatable discussion on urban living and the trials of summer weather.
Celebrity Connections and Everyday Encounters
During a chance encounter at a local eatery, one host runs into a friend who deals in luxury watches, sparking a conversation about their perspectives on the watch business. The hosts reflect on the notion of celebrity and how mundane activities can intertwine with extraordinary connections. They ponder on the rarity of luxury watches and share humorous insights about their aesthetic appeal, suggesting that beauty in everyday objects often leads to differing opinions. This highlights the contrast between personal tastes and the broader culture of consumerism.
Food Culture and Culinary Innovations
A vibrant discussion unfolds regarding the hosts' experiences with food, specifically the creative twists they incorporate into traditional recipes. One host reveals their contribution to a culinary publication featuring sandwiches, teasing a unique take on the classic tomato sandwich. The conversation plays with nostalgia and innovation, as they critique common perceptions of seasonal produce. They note how personal tastes can shift over time, reflecting broader trends in food culture.
Adventures in Transportation and Cross-Country Travel
The episode transitions into a discussion about the merits and challenges of driving across the country. The guest shares their love for long drives while exploring various routes and scenic stops along the way, shedding light on hidden treasures they’ve discovered in different states. Intriguing anecdotes emerge regarding their travel companions and memorable pit stops, revealing how journeys shape personal experiences. This segment captures the essence of adventure and the unique narratives that unfold when one is on the road.
Cultural Shifts in Education and Youth Perspectives
The dialogue shifts towards the guests' observations about contemporary students and the shifting cultural landscape in education. Reflecting on their experiences as educators, they discuss the generational differences in how young people engage with art and literature today. The challenges brought on by AI and technology in writing are scrutinized, emphasizing the need to adapt teaching methods accordingly. This conversation highlights both the evolving nature of learning and the enduring value of human creativity in the face of technological advancement.
Jonathan Lethem is a writer from New York who is currently living in Southern California. His newest book, Cellophane Bricks, is out now. We spoke with him from his house in Maine about three shower days, tomato sandwiches, he just drove from Los Angeles to Maine, the best molé in Utah, early tech media, dropping out of Bennington College, when a reference dies, the infinite jukebox, a new kind of superhero, how he sleeps on planes, AI is the most boring way to cheat, and how he knows he's having fun writing.