Join a lively discussion that hops from the allure of Dutch art to the intricacies of modern storytelling in 'Stranger Things.' Explore the fascinating world of Tudor history through a visit to the Tower of London, led by captivating Beefeaters. Delve into the complexities of historical figures like Thomas More, while unraveling today's political and cultural narratives. The conversation takes a sharp turn as it critiques democratic governance failures and the urge for accountability in a time of corruption and mismanagement.
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Quick takeaways
Jonah Goldberg highlights the enriching nature of everyday life and commerce in Dutch art compared to monotonous religious pieces.
His critique of a 'Stranger Things' adaptation emphasizes how shared experiences shape our appreciation of cultural narratives despite their flaws.
Goldberg reflects on the importance of effective local governance in disaster management, criticizing the failures that exacerbate crises like wildfires.
Deep dives
Reflections on Art and Ideology
The speaker discusses his appreciation for Dutch paintings, particularly those by Rembrandt, highlighting their reflection of 16th-century life and the emergence of capitalism. He notes the contrast between these works and the abundance of religious paintings in major museums, which he finds monotonous. The speaker expresses a preference for art that portrays everyday life and commerce, as it offers a glimpse into the human experience of that time. He suggests that while transcendental art has its place, more relatable subject matter can enrich cultural appreciation.
The Theater Experience with Family
The speaker shares his recent outing to see a theater adaptation related to the popular Netflix series 'Stranger Things' with his daughter. While he initially had reservations about the production, he enjoyed the shared experience and her enthusiasm for the show. He critiques the acting and writing, suggesting that the production could have benefited from refinement but praises its impressive technical feats. This experience prompts him to reflect on the nature of theater and how it can evoke strong emotions and discussions regardless of the narrative quality.
Exploring Themes in Stranger Things
A comparison is drawn between 'Stranger Things' and the movie 'Taken,' highlighting common themes of underdog characters who possess unique skills becoming heroes in a crisis. The discussion emphasizes how the show's protagonists, initially viewed as social misfits, end up utilizing their knowledge of Dungeons and Dragons in real-life scenarios. The connection serves to underline a recurring narrative in cinema where seemingly powerless characters find strength in their passions when faced with challenges. This examination raises questions about the societal norms surrounding youth and the value placed on different forms of intelligence.
Political Observations During Travel
While traveling, the speaker reflects on the coverage of ongoing political issues contrasted with his personal experiences, particularly focusing on the recent affectations of wildfires in California. He shares insights on how local governance can greatly affect disaster preparedness and responses, criticising the failure to prevent or manage such crises adequately. The speaker expresses empathy for all victims impacted by the fires, regardless of their economic status, emphasizing the necessity for human compassion during disasters. He contemplates the future ramifications of political decisions on community resilience and urban management.
Cultural Critiques and Governance
The speaker delves into historical context about governance in relation to public service and the challenges presented by contemporary ideologies. He critiques the prevailing notion of identity politics and patronage within political circles, arguing that such dynamics often undermine effective governance. The conversation touches upon the biases inherent in public sector hiring practices and their implications for emergency services and community safety. The speaker concludes by reflecting on the need for clarity in roles and responsibilities within government to better serve citizens' needs.
Sir Jonah Goldberg, the earl of The Dispatch, uses his teatime to discuss his preference for the Dutch masters, the Stranger Things play, and Henry VIII’s array of underwear models. Somehow, he ties it all back to personal pluralism, forestry management, the abject failures of democratic city governance, and Donald Trump's new imperial ambitions.
The Remnant is a production of The Dispatch, a digital media company covering politics, policy, and culture from a non-partisan, conservative perspective. To access all of The Dispatch’s offerings—including Jonah’s G-File newsletter, weekly livestreams, and other members-only content—click here.
