Spectator Out Loud: James MacMillan, Sebastian Morello, Amy Wilentz, Sam Leith and Lloyd Evans
Jan 4, 2025
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James MacMillan, a renowned composer, shares his diary entries connecting the beauty of football with music, offering personal anecdotes and thought-provoking insights on the relationship between music and religion. Sebastian Morello delves into the profound ties between hunting and Christianity, exploring ethical practices and humanity’s bond with nature. Together, they provoke critical reflections on culture and faith, making for a captivating discussion on the interplay between tradition, art, and the human experience.
James MacMillan highlights the cultural significance of music in football, advocating for a deeper appreciation of its artistic narratives.
Sebastian Morello discusses the historical ties between hunting and Christianity, warning against modern legislation that misunderstand the cultural heritage of these practices.
Deep dives
The Intersection of Music and Football
Composer James Macmillan discusses the profound connection between music and football, emphasizing how various composers have drawn inspiration from the sport. Notable examples include his own orchestral work themed around football, which incorporates melodies and chants, reflecting the game's cultural significance. He highlights the works of composers like Dmitry Shostakovich, who composed overtly football-inspired scores, and contrasts past football-themed compositions with contemporary attitudes towards music. Macmillan argues for a deeper appreciation of music’s ability to narrate and celebrate the spirit of football, suggesting that this intersection enriches both art forms.
Christianity and Hunting Traditions
Sebastian Morello examines the historical and spiritual connection between hunting and Christianity, revealing its deep roots in British culture. He recounts his experiences with a friend in the hunting community, illustrating the rich traditions that have been passed down through generations. Morello warns against modern legislative efforts to ban traditional hunting, arguing that such measures are rooted in misunderstanding and risk severing connections to Christian heritage and stewardship of nature. He posits that hunting, when practiced sustainably, plays a vital role in wildlife management and ecological balance, serving both cultural and spiritual purposes.
The Complexities of Vodou in Haiti
Amy Valenz delves into the intricacies of Vodou as both a cultural cornerstone and a catalyst for violence in Haiti, particularly in relation to gang activity. She draws a stark contrast between the reality of Haitian immigrants and disparaging stereotypes propagated by political figures, highlighting the true challenges faced by those fleeing a chaotic environment. Valenz recounts the horrific actions of gang leader Mycano Altes, emphasizing how his claims of black magic can manipulate followers and incite violence against vulnerable populations. Ultimately, she underscores that the brutality in Haiti isn't solely about Vodou practices, but is deeply tied to socio-economic instability and systemic failure.
This week: composer James MacMillan reads his diary on the beautiful music of football (01:11); Sebastian Morello tells us about the deep connection between hunting and Christianity (07:17); Amy Wilentz explains how Vodou fuels Haiti’s gang culture (16:14); The Spectator’s literary editor Sam Leith reviews The Virago Book of Friendship (22:38); and – from the arts pages – The Spectator’s theatre critic Lloyd Evans writes about a new play on the last days of Liz Truss and also about Bette and Joan, which includes 'brutal' and 'brilliant' portraits of Bette Davis and Joan Crawford (26:37).
Presented by Oscar Edmondson.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Oscar Edmondson.
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