The LRB Podcast

Edmund Gordon, an author and creative writing lecturer, joins Tom to delve into the psychological depths of tennis. They discuss the raw talent and mental fortitude that define legends like Federer, Nadal, Djokovic, and Murray. Gordon shares insights on the emerging rivalry between Sinner and Alcaraz, highlighting their psychological dynamics. The conversation also touches on the pressures faced by young athletes and their families, alongside the hidden costs of the sport that challenge players both physically and mentally.

David Trotter, Emeritus professor of English literature at Cambridge and author of several insightful works, dives into the cultural significance of golf in the modern world. He discusses how the sport reflects social dynamics, serving both as a social battleground and a marker of wealth. Trotter highlights golf's ethical dilemmas, particularly in light of recent public figures' actions, and explores how it shapes character. The conversation also touches on the role of technology and the evolving inclusivity in golf, revealing much about our society's values.

Adam Thirlwell, a writer known for his fiction and cultural criticism, joins Marina Warner to delve into Mary Shelley's iconic 'Frankenstein.' They discuss how Shelley's personal losses influenced her portrayal of ambition and caution in the face of knowledge. Thirlwell examines the creature's dual identity and the moral implications of creation. Their conversation touches on profound themes of rejection, isolation, and the longing for acceptance, highlighting the emotional depth of both creator and creature.

Join Jon Day, a King's College London educator and author of "Homing," as he explores the intriguing world of lab and wild rats. Discover the compelling experiments of John B. Calhoun, revealing unsettling parallels between rat behavior and human societal issues like urban overcrowding. Day discusses the ethics of using rats in research and how misconceptions shape our views of these creatures. He challenges the myths surrounding rat populations and highlights the complex, often misunderstood relationship between humans and rats in our shared environments.

In this discussion, Andy Beckett, a Guardian columnist and author, dives into the dark ties between Pinochet's Chile and Nazi Germany. He reveals how notorious Nazi war criminal Walther Rauff found refuge in Chile, boasting a chilling connection to Pinochet's regime. The conversation also explores the long shadow of Salvador Allende's democratic government and how its fall resonates today. Beckett highlights implications of impunity in political systems and the ongoing threat of authoritarianism under the guise of conservatism.

Narges Bajoghli, an expert on Iranian politics from Johns Hopkins University, and Robert Malley, a Yale visiting professor and former lead US negotiator on Iran, discuss the recent conflict initiated by Israel. They delve into the Iranian regime's narrative post-war, contrasting public reactions to Israeli airstrikes, and the implications for national identity. The conversation highlights the complex dynamics of Iran’s nuclear ambitions amidst geopolitical tensions, addressing the U.S.'s historical role and the inconsistent international perspectives on nuclear issues.

Adam Thirlwell, a novelist and critic known for his adventurous explorations of fiction, joins to dissect the dark themes of James Hogg's 'The Private Memoirs and Confessions of a Justified Sinner' and Mikhail Bulgakov's 'The Master and Margarita.' They dive into the nuances of fanaticism, exploring how both authors represent pacts with the devil, and discuss the characters' moral dilemmas linked to antinomianism. Thirlwell sheds light on how these fantastical narratives not only reflect personal identity but also comment on the socio-political landscapes of their times.

Francesca Wade, author of *Square Haunting*, delves into the life of Belle da Costa Greene, J.P. Morgan's personal librarian who transformed a private collection into a public treasure. They discuss Greene's fascinating identity struggles, specifically her decision to conceal her African American heritage. Wade uncovers Greene's long-distance relationship with art historian Bernard Berenson and her strategic maneuvers in a male-dominated field. The conversation reflects on Greene's significant contributions to librarianship and the complex legacy she left behind.

Laleh Khalili, a professor at the University of Exeter and author of "Extractive Capitalism," joins to discuss the critical intersection of Silicon Valley and the Pentagon. She critiques the influence of private tech firms on military spending, especially under Trump's massive defense budget. The conversation delves into the evolution of military strategy, the reliance on advanced technology, and the implications of shifting tech relations. Khalili argues these partnerships pose threats to national security and the public good, challenging us to rethink our priorities.

Joanna Biggs, former editor at the LRB and deputy editor of the Yale Review, discusses the legendary Marguerite Yourcenar, the first woman in the Académie Française. They delve into 'Memoirs of Hadrian', exploring its emotional depth, themes of love and sacrifice, and its cultural significance. Biggs highlights Yourcenar’s aristocratic roots and her connections with other female writers. The conversation also reflects on how personal artifacts shape cultural identity, revealing the timeless nature of human experiences throughout history.