Michael Clune

Michael Clune, author of the debut novel 'Pan' and acclaimed memoirs like 'White Out: The Secret Life of Heroin,' shares his vivid journey through adolescence and panic attacks. He discusses the complexities of teenage consciousness and the misconceptions of mental health in the 90s. Clune beautifully connects creativity with anxiety, revealing how art and psychedelics can transform personal experiences. He also explores the mythological figure Pan and its ties to identity and emotional struggles, inviting listeners to reflect on their own paths.

Michael W. Clune, a professor at Case Western Reserve University and author of A Defense of Judgment, dives into the precarious balance between expert aesthetic judgment and marketplace-driven valuations. He critiques the modern shift towards egalitarianism in art, arguing it undermines traditional expertise. Clune explores the intertwining of literary criticism and creation, emphasizing how analysis can enhance appreciation. Their discussion also highlights the historical shifts in literary education and the critical role it plays in shaping personal taste and understanding.

Michael Clune, an insightful writer and academic known for his memoirs and critical works, joins the hosts to explore his novel, Pan. The narrative follows Nick, a 15-year-old grappling with panic attacks and life’s complexities. Clune discusses how gaming shaped his childhood and the imaginative landscapes in his writing. The conversation touches on adolescence's intensity, the impact of 1990s culture, and how panic can alter perception. They delve into the connections between myth, consciousness, and the transformative experience of growing up.