Close Reads Podcast

It's that time again: let's answer YOUR questions. Join David, Tim, and Heidi as they contemplate topics like Salinger geeks, Holden's affection for the nuns, the ugly vandalism at Phoebe's school, Holden Caulfield on screen, DB's role, and much more. And remember to rate and review wherever you get podcasts! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. 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 highlights the tension between Holden Caulfield's cynicism and idealism as he navigates complex relationships, particularly with his sister Phoebe. The podcast dives into themes of trust and betrayal in Holden’s interactions with Mr. Antolini, raising questions about reliability and trauma. It also examines the dark influence of literature, linking 'The Catcher in the Rye' to notable tragedies. Additionally, the speakers celebrate the book’s legacy while contemplating the evolving perceptions of teacher-student dynamics.

Holden's unique language and diction take center stage, revealing his emotional struggles. The red hunting hat symbolizes vulnerability and connection, while a whimsical chat about winter ducks offers a deep dive into loneliness and change. The complexity of Holden's character unfolds as the hosts explore his cynical exterior hiding deeper trauma. Humorous exchanges about whistling lead to serious reflections on language's connection to self, making for a rich discussion on identity and disillusionment in a post-war society.

It's a surprise bonus episode with the one-and-only Leif Enger! David chatted with him recently about the inspiration for Peace Like a River, his early days as a writer, the choices he makes as a writer, his process, his love of western novels and movies, and much, much more. If you like this episode please be sure to rate and review wherever you get podcasts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. 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

Dive into the controversial world of J.D. Salinger's classic novel. The hosts reflect on why some love and others loathe 'The Catcher in the Rye'. They tackle the impact of foul language, Holden's cynicism, and the struggles of authenticity in teenage friendships. Explore the complex dynamics between Holden and his mentor, Mr. Spencer, revealing deep emotional connections. The conversation also addresses loneliness and grief, highlighting the importance of compassion in understanding troubled characters.

It's time for your questions here! We did our best to answer as many questions about Peace Like a River as we could, as well as we could. We talked about the title of the book, the nature of symbolism and allegory, the problem of Davy, the Westernness of this story, Swede's name, Jeremiah's pneumonia, and Andreeson conundrum, and much more. Remember to rate and review! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. 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

Here we are at the end of Leif Enger's Peace Like a River. In this episode David, Heidi, and Tim discuss the denouement (and overall structure) of the story, Rueben's fate, Davy's choice to leave (again), and much more. If you like this episode, be sure to rate and review wherever you listen to podcasts! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. 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

We're back with more conversation about Leif Enger's Peace Like a River. In this episode David, Heidi, and Tim discuss the nefarious Jape Waltzer, Andreeson's changing role, the story's budding romance, and much, much more. It's a long one, so buckle up. Remember: rate, review wherever you get podcasts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. 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

And so the odyssey into Leif Enger's Peace Like a River continues. In this episode, the crew chats about magical realism as a genre, Roxana as Beatrice figure, the Land family's descent into the underworld, and much, much more. If you like this show please make sure to rate and review the show wherever you get podcasts! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. 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

We're back with more conversation about Leif Enger's Peace Like a River! In this episode, David, Heidi, and Tim discuss the Fairy Tale elements of the story, the question of realism, what the story is ultimately about, Swede's preciousness, and much more. Remember to rate and review wherever you listen! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. 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