The LRB Podcast

Tessa Hadley, a celebrated author and regular contributor to the London Review of Books, delves into the literary world of Mavis Gallant. They discuss Gallant's profound short stories and what sets them apart from her novels. Hadley highlights how Gallant's unique insights into society, particularly through female characters, reveal rich human experiences. The conversation also touches on the intriguing blend of personal and broader wartime themes in Gallant's work, showcasing her status as a ‘writer's writer’ and the impact of her self-doubt on her craft.

Join Patricia Lockwood, a celebrated author and contributing editor, and David Trotter, an esteemed professor of English literature, as they delve into the haunting world of 'Wuthering Heights'. They explore Heathcliff's murky origins and Cathy’s ghostly presence, dissecting the novel's complex structure and rich language. The discussion touches on the animalistic behaviors of its characters, the Brontë sisters' collaborative writing, and the deep interplay of nature with human emotions. Their insights reveal why this 'amoral' tale continues to captivate audiences today.

Colin Burrow, Fellow of All Souls College, Oxford and author of renowned literary works, dives into the fascinating world of the Brothers Grimm. He discusses their historical context and how their narratives reflect a turbulent German identity. The conversation explores the surreal themes in their tales, revealing dark roots often sanitized in modern adaptations like Disney. Burrow highlights the intricate storytelling techniques, including the importance of recurring magical numbers, and how these elements contribute to the enduring allure of the Grimms' fairy tales.

Peter Beinart, an influential author known for his critical views on Jewish identity post-conflict, joins Rachel Shabi, who provides nuanced insights on contemporary antisemitism. They discuss the moral rifts in Jewish communities in response to the Gaza crisis and the generational divides it has exposed. The conversation delves into the complexities of antisemitism in modern politics, the intersection of Jewish identity and anti-racism, and the shifting loyalties towards Israel among younger Jews. Their analyses highlight the urgent need for inclusive dialogue in these turbulent times.

A decade ago, the hedge fund manager Paul Marshall was known as a Lib Dem donor and founder of the Ark academy chain. Now, as the owner of UnHerd, GB News and, since last September, the Spectator, he’s a right-wing media tycoon. Peter Geoghegan joins Thomas Jones to discuss Marshall’s transformation. He explains the ‘symbiotic relationship’ between Marshall and Michael Gove, their shared connection to evangelical Christianity, and the changing shape of conservative politics in Britain.Find further reading on the episode page: https://lrb.me/marshallpodSponsored links:Use the code ‘LRB’ to get £150 off Serious Readers lights here: https://www.seriousreaders.com/lrb Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Freya Johnston teaches English at Oxford and has edited Thomas Love Peacock’s novels, while Thomas Keymer from Toronto has written extensively on Peacock. Together, they dive into Peacock's unconventional novel, 'Crotchet Castle.' They discuss the book's unique approach, favoring dialogue over character development and offering satirical takes on the societal issues of Peacock's time. The conversation also highlights themes like utilitarianism, whimsical societal ideas, and strong female characters, particularly Lady Clorinda's political charm in a patriarchal setting.

Dani Garavelli, a journalist for the Herald on Sunday, has been investigating the heartbreaking cases of Katie Allan and William Lindsay, who tragically died in Scottish prisons. She discusses the alarming suicide rates among young inmates, revealing a healthcare system that fails them. Garavelli highlights the systemic flaws in youth justice, advocating for urgent reforms. She also shares insights into the personal impact of these tragedies on families and the need for societal change to support mental health in custody.

Brett Christophers, a Professor of Human Geography at Uppsala University and author of 'The Price is Wrong,' discusses the alarming shift in climate action from proactive policies to resignation. He critiques traditional economic theories linked to environmental issues and highlights the paradox of fossil fuel companies amidst climate change. The impact of COVID on emissions, the pitfalls of corporate solutions, and the importance of grassroots activism, especially in cases like Ecuador's referendum against oil exploitation, are also examined.

Toril Moi, a celebrated critic and feminist literary theorist from Duke University, dives deep into the world of Norwegian novelist Vigdis Hjorth. They explore Hjorth's unique portrayal of intimate yet complicated relationships, from estranged siblings to tormented lovers. Moi highlights the gender biases Hjorth faced in her career and discusses how these misconceptions overshadow her philosophical insights. The conversation also touches on the complexity of translating Hjorth's work, emphasizing her blend of humor and tragedy in addressing themes of identity and personal accountability.

Colin Burrow, an academic specializing in 19th-century British literature, dives deep into Jane Austen's 'Mansfield Park.' He highlights Fanny Price's challenges as a poor relation, revealing the novel's sharp critique of wealth and morality. Discussion centers on the theme of 'improvement' symbolized by Mr. Rushworth's estate and contrasts Fanny's moral fortitude with her relatives' ignorance of slavery's implications. The conversation unpacks the transactional nature of marriage and how social status complicates personal ambitions in Austen's world.