Aaron Sachs

Join writers Wyatt Mason, Richard J. King, and Aaron Sachs as they dive deep into the layers of 'Moby Dick.' Wyatt reflects on the emotional connection readers have with the whale, while Richard discusses Ahab’s tumultuous relationship with the sea. Aaron analyzes Melville’s influence on modern literature and environmental narratives. The conversation touches on teaching Melville to incarcerated students, showcasing the novel’s timeless relevance. Explore the intricate blend of humor and seriousness in Melville’s work, making it resonate with contemporary challenges.

Aaron Sachs, a historian and author of "Up from the Depths," dives into the intricate parallels between the struggles of Herman Melville and Lewis Mumford and today's challenges. He argues that understanding these historical moments can inspire hope amid current adversities. The conversation explores societal anxieties across American history, critiques of technology and urbanization, and the profound themes of life and death in literature. Sachs emphasizes the cyclical nature of history and the potential for renewed political engagement.

Author Aaron Sachs discusses his book on Herman Melville and Lewis Mumford, exploring the influence of Melville on William Faulkner, the complexities of empathy in biography writing, the power of storytelling in finding meaning in dark times, and the theme of alienation in Melville's works.