Paul Wood discusses the alarming resurgence of ISIS and the US's strange partnership with the Taliban in combating this threat. Philip Hensher reviews a new biography of the Brothers Grimm, emphasizing how words can wield immense power and shape cultures. Damian Thompson shares his unconventional way of handling election anxiety—watching videos of plane crashes to distract himself from the chaos. Together, these guests paint a vivid picture of contemporary challenges and cultural reflections.