The LRB Podcast

Thomas Meaney, an editor and writer with experience at Humboldt University, dives deep into the life of William F. Buckley, the controversial figure behind National Review. They explore Buckley's role in shaping conservative opposition post-WWII, his Ivy League influence, and connections with anti-communism. Meaney highlights Buckley’s defense of segregation and the Vietnam War, alongside his impact on modern conservatism and surprising links to Trumpism. Buckley’s complex legacy is dissected, revealing his enduring influence on the American right.

Historian Greg Grandin, noted for his work on US-Latin America relations, joins to dissect the recent US seizure of Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro. He explores the surprising yet familiar patterns of US intervention, revealing Trump's emphasis on migration and oil rather than democracy. Grandin discusses the Monroe Doctrine's legacy and how Trump's approach mirrors historical hegemony, ultimately questioning the effectiveness of such military maneuvers in achieving lasting power. He links Trump's aggressive foreign policy to domestic strategies, painting a complex picture of American influence.

John Lanchester, a contributing editor at the London Review of Books and an author known for his insights on literature and finance, dives into the complexities of the AI financial bubble. He explores historical parallels with past economic bubbles and critiques the accuracy of the term 'artificial intelligence.' Lanchester discusses how AI firms might monopolize markets like Amazon did, and he raises concerns about the ethical implications and real harms of large language models. The conversation paints a vivid picture of what the future might hold as technology evolves.

Tom McCarthy, a renowned writer and artist known for his Booker-listed novels, dives deep into Cervantes' 'Don Quixote.' He explores the character’s unique perception of reality and the influence of literature on his madness. McCarthy discusses the modern implications of Quixote’s adventures and the ways in which media shapes perception, drawing parallels between Quixote’s delusions and contemporary society. They also reflect on narrative techniques, the clash of fantasy and reality, and how Quixote laid the groundwork for modern storytelling.

Colin Burrow, a literary scholar from Oxford, and Clare Bucknell, a fellow and literary critic, dive into the complexities of Dickens's A Christmas Carol. They explore how Dickens commercialized Christmas while critiquing societal issues like the 1834 Poor Law. The duo discusses Scrooge's Malthusian views and his redemption, examining the narrative structure from ghostly visits to the blending of fairy tale elements with a dark urban backdrop. They also highlight Dickens's call for empathy through abundance and the ethics of sharing.

Patricia Lockwood, a contributing editor at the London Review of Books and author known for her unique blend of poetry and memoir, joins David Trotter, an Emeritus professor of English literature. They dive into the amoral nature of 'Wuthering Heights,' exploring Emily Brontë’s bold narrative choices. Lockwood describes the novel's animalistic undertones, while Trotter unpacks Heathcliff's complex origins and the intricate family dynamics. They also discuss cultural adaptations, the impact of marriage on property rights, and the haunting legacy of Brontë's only novel.

Bee Wilson, a writer and cultural critic known for her insightful essays on food and culture, joins Malin Hay to delve into the complex legacy of Judy Garland. They explore Garland's tumultuous experiences at MGM Studios, including the exploitation she faced and the artistic brilliance she achieved. Wilson discusses Garland's evolution into a star, her significant collaborations, and the duality of her public persona versus private struggles. They also reflect on who truly owns Garland's legacy in today's cultural landscape.

Colin Yeo, a barrister and immigration law expert, and Nicola Kelly, a writer and former Home Office civil servant, dive deep into Britain's asylum system. They explore the recent proposals by the Labour party, emphasizing the detrimental effects of longer probationary periods on integration. Nicola highlights the human toll of draconian policies, advocating for a compassionate public discourse. They also discuss the origins of small boat crossings and challenge the narratives linking asylum seekers to crime, suggesting practical policy fixes to address ongoing issues.

Sepideh Farsi, an Iranian exile filmmaker based in Paris, shares her journey documenting the life of Palestinian photographer Fatma Hassona, who tragically lost her life in an airstrike. They discuss the bond they formed over video calls amidst fear and destruction, exploring Fatma's resilience and commitment to witnessing her reality through photography. Farsi reflects on the ethical challenges of documenting such devastation, the importance of portraying dignity rather than sensationalism, and the emotional weight of carrying Fatma's story forward after her death.

James Wood, a prominent literary critic, explores the essence of realism in major novels. Meehan Crist and Peter Godfrey-Smith delve into environmental literature, highlighting influential works like 'Silent Spring' while discussing the intricate relationship between science and narrative. Mark Ford sheds light on the narrative poetry tradition, mapping connections from Marlowe to contemporary poets. The discussions intertwine fiction and reality, revealing how literature reflects and shapes our understanding of nature and narrative.