Standup comedian Brendon Lemon and midwest existentialist explores the existential abyss and finds humor in it. They discuss topics like narrative collapse, the OJ Simpson Bronco chase and the Capitol break-in, the role-playing attitude of activist students, perceiving the Capitol events as cosplay, finding happiness through compassion, existential challenges in the Midwest, alternative investment practices, the need for a reckoning, and the resurgence of live theater.
The breakdown of narrative cohesion in the digital age leads to a disconnect in understanding and communication.
Living in a post-narrative world blurs the line between cause and effect and creates collective amnesia and confusion.
Embracing vulnerability and seeking genuine human connections is crucial in a culture plagued by simulation and pseudo-events.
Deep dives
The breakdown of narrative and the struggle for truth
In this podcast episode, the concept of narrative collapse is explored, highlighting the breakdown of our ability to construct a coherent narrative due to the influence of technology and the internet. The episode emphasizes how this lack of narrative cohesion leads to a disconnect in understanding and communication, creating a landscape where facts are subjective and multiple narratives seem equally plausible. The consequences of this narrative collapse are examined, particularly in relation to real-world events such as the January 6th insurrection. The episode underscores the importance of seeking authentic connections and being mindful of the narratives we construct or buy into.
The allure and dangers of simulated reality
This episode delves into the concept of hyperreality, where our reality becomes divorced from our actual experience of it. It explores how our media consumption has shifted to narratives that lack consequences, where the viewing experience itself becomes the focus rather than the plot resolution. The dangers of living in a post-narrative world are discussed, highlighting the difficulties in distinguishing between cause and effect and the challenges in constructing a meaningful and shared narrative framework. The episode points out that these shifts in storytelling have consequences in real-world events and create a sense of collective amnesia and confusion.
The quest for authenticity and vulnerability
This episode delves into the desire for authenticity and the struggle to find meaning in a world plagued by simulation and pseudo-events. It delves into the challenges of being vulnerable and authentic in a culture that often punishes such honesty. The discussion emphasizes the importance of refocusing on genuine human connections and real community, instead of immersing ourselves in virtual identities and artificial narratives. The episode calls for a return to the real, where meaningful connections and genuine experiences can be found by being present and embracing the complexities and uncertainties of life.
Navigating the chaos and pursuing personal truth
This episode delves into the complexities of navigating a chaotic world where narratives are fragmented and truth seems elusive. It encourages listeners to unravel the narratives imposed upon them and engage in the difficult work of defining their own identities and finding personal meaning. The episode explores the tension between an inclination to latch onto simplified narratives and the pursuit of personal truth by embracing the uncertainties of existence. It challenges listeners to resist the allure of superficial narratives and instead seek genuine connections, mindfulness, and the courage to grapple with the complexities of reality.
Existentialism and the Midwest
The podcast episode explores the concept of existentialism in the context of the Midwest. The guest believes that there is a unique form of existentialism in the Midwest due to the influence of large corporate forces on small towns. He argues that people in the Midwest are faced with heavy existential questions and are compelled to seek meaning outside of the impersonal and corporate-driven culture. This existentialism is seen as distinct from other forms of existentialism and is characterized by a desire to grapple with heavy ideas and seek alternative paths of fulfillment.
The End of the Narrative and Embracing Absurdity
The podcast episode delves into the idea of embracing the lack of narrative and finding humor in the absurdity of life. The guest suggests that there is a cultural addiction to narrative and a fear of the absence of meaning. However, he argues that accepting the lack of narrative and embracing the absurdity can lead to a greater appreciation of the present moment and a more fulfilling life. He also discusses the importance of human connections and live performances in navigating the digital age and finding meaning in the face of uncertainty and the unknown.
Standup comedian and midwest existentialist Brendon Lemon walks us through the existential abyss, where we find out there’s actually something funny about all this.
About Brendan Lemon
Brendon Lemon is a comedian from Detroit, where he started performing regularly at the famous Comedy Castle at age 16. Two years in he was filmed for the documentary Be Funny which featured Christopher Titus and Mike Green. He moved to Paris in the summer of 2013 to both write and perform stand-up in both French and English. He returned to the US and lived between Boulder, Colorado and Chicago performing and writing plays, as well as being featured on the TV show Sex Sent Me to The ER, and the movie Do You Believe.
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