Close Reads Podcast

Welcome back to our series on Edith Wharton’s very complex (and wonderful) novel. This week, in discussing the ending, we find ourselves at, well, a loss for words. Nevertheless, we persist. We attempt to reckon with the complicated nature of May’s character, Newland’s fatalism and paralyzed life of the mind, the question of whether he’s a tragic character, how we may or may not re-think the countess in light of the ending, and much more! As always, happy listening!To learn about The Tapestry curriculum from the CiRCE Institute click here! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome back to our ongoing series about The Age of Innocence! This week we’re discussing when a thought becomes a sin in this book, whether there’s enough substance in Newland for a woman like Ellen to fall in love with him, Newland’s obsession with fate (even if he has manufacture some), Ellen as representative of European culture for Newland, and much, much more. Happy listening! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe

The hosts delve into the evolving dynamics between the two main female characters, exploring their complexities and motivations. Newland's moral dilemmas take center stage, as they debate whether he should end his engagement, highlighting societal pressures. Insights into innocence abound, with distinctions drawn between May's naivete and Ellen's individualism. A close reading of poignant scenes reveals the tension between duty and desire, as characters challenge each other's choices and confront their own consciences.

Dive into the complexities of Edith Wharton's world as the hosts explore Newland Archer's perception and his role in the Gilded Age. They compare Wharton's social satire with Wodehouse's humor, highlighting the contrasts in tone. The Countess Olenska sparks debates about cultural freedom versus societal convention. Discussions on love reveal Newland's conflicting desires, the nature of his relationships, and how social expectations shape their realities. Predictions of impending tragedy add an intriguing layer to the literary analysis.

The hosts dive into their favorite reads of the year, sharing their top five book selections and discussing unique literary experiences. They reflect on audience reactions to classic titles and the importance of provocative conversations. Highlights include surprising reads like 'Bridge of San Luis Rey' and explorations of historical figures in 'Stalin, Court of the Red Czar.' The episode teases an exciting reading list for 2026, featuring Tolkien and other classics, while also celebrating personal reflections on cherished books from their childhood.

Dive into the world of Shakespeare’s comedy! The hosts tackle Margaret’s overlooked culpability and explore Dogberry’s role as the wise fool. They debate why Don Pedro woos for Claudio and analyze Beatrice’s sharp rejection of him. Enjoy fun fan-casting ideas and discover why cannibalism jokes pop up. Plus, hear the hosts suggest pairing this play with Pride and Prejudice for deeper insights. It's an entertaining mix of wit and literary analysis!

For your errand-running, long drive, baking, cleaning, or lounging listening, we present a Christmas mailbag in which we answer your questions about traditions, books, characters in the Nativity story, and much more! Happy listening and Merry Christmas!Image credit: 1953, Man Tangled Up in Christmas Decorations by Al Brule This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome back to our series on Much Abo About Nothing! This week we're discussing Hero's role in the story, which characters have a positive transformation, what makes Beatric and Benedick's relationship so delightful, and much, much more. As always, happy listening! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe

The discussion dives into Beatrice's shocking demand to "kill Claudio," exploring its dramatic impact on the play and her relationship with Benedick. Hosts ponder the blend of comedy with darker themes in Shakespeare's work, highlighting the shift from playful conspiracies to real harm. Benedick's transformation is a focal point, as he moves from wit to action for love. The complexities of justice versus vengeance are debated, alongside the dynamics of masculinity and leadership failures among key characters.

Welcome back to another conversation about Shakespeare’s delightful comedy. This week we discuss the differences between “noting” and investigating, Dogberry the wise fool who sees but nonetheless can’t communicate clearly in contract with the characters who can communicate but don’t have vision, the question of who the play’s hero is, and much, much more. Happy listening! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe