Episode 66: Padraic Scanlan Makes the Medicine Go Down

Published in 1933, 'Down and Out in Paris and London' is George Orwell's first full-length book, a semi-autobiographical account of his time living in poverty. The book is divided into two parts: the first describes his life in near-destitution in Paris, including his work as a dishwasher in a hotel and his struggles with hunger and homelessness. The second part recounts his experiences in London, where he lived as a tramp and explored the harsh realities of poverty and the conditions in workhouses and lodging houses. Orwell's narrative sheds light on societal inequalities and the struggles of those on the fringes of society, challenging the romantic notions of poverty and highlighting the structural issues that lead to homelessness[2][3][5].

This book, edited by Eric Hobsbawm and Terence Ranger, examines the concept of 'invented traditions,' which are cultural practices presented as having a long history but are actually of recent origin. The essays cover various topics such as the creation of Welsh and Scottish national cultures, the elaboration of British royal rituals, and the origins of imperial rituals in British India and Africa. The book highlights how these invented traditions were used to foster social cohesion, legitimize institutions, and solidify value systems and beliefs. It also explores the complex interaction between past and present and how these traditions were constructed to serve specific historical and political needs[1][2][4].

The Orchid Thief is a non-fiction book by Susan Orlean that delves into the world of orchid collecting. The story centers around John Laroche, a charismatic plant dealer who was arrested in 1994 for stealing ghost orchids from the Fakahatchee Strand State Preserve in Florida. Orlean's investigation leads her into a fascinating subculture of orchid enthusiasts, including aristocrats, fanatics, and smugglers. The book explores the history of orchid collecting, the legal and environmental implications of Laroche's actions, and the author's own encounters with various figures in the orchid world. It is a tale of obsession, passion, and the sometimes dark and humorous aspects of human fixation[1][3][5].