The New Yorker Radio Hour

In this thought-provoking discussion, Rachel Aviv, a staff writer for The New Yorker, delves into the life and legacy of Nobel Prize-winning author Alice Munro. Aviv reveals the hidden trauma within Munro's family, particularly the emotional fallout from her partner's abuse of their daughter, Andrea Skinner. The conversation explores the paradox of Munro's empathy as an artist juxtaposed with her personal betrayals, raising crucial questions about the cost of creativity and the complexities of familial relationships.

Julianne Moore, an acclaimed film actress known for her versatile roles and collaborations with legendary directors, shares insights into her craft. She discusses her attraction to stories of ordinary lives and the importance of collaboration with filmmakers. Moore reflects on how a director's style can profoundly influence her performances and expresses the emotional depth she seeks in characters. Through her experiences, she reveals the balance between spontaneity and preparation that shapes her creative process.

Ina Garten, the beloved host of 'Barefoot Contessa,' reflects on her culinary journey, emphasizing her preference for cooking in solitude despite her warm public persona. She shares insights from her memoir 'Be Ready When the Luck Happens,' detailing her early kitchen experiences and the personal joys of cooking. Meanwhile, Alex Barasch explores the alluring world of erotic thrillers, inspired by the film 'Baby Girl,' discussing themes of power and desire while examining the genre's evolution and cultural significance.

M. William Howard Jr., a prominent minister and former president of the National Council of Churches, shares his incredible experience visiting American hostages in Tehran during the 1979 crisis. He vividly recalls how he brought updates on the NFL playoffs to the captives while leading them in prayer. Howard discusses the tension in the U.S. and the importance of his visit as a peace gesture amid rising militaristic sentiments. This poignant account illuminates faith and connection during a deeply turbulent time, showcasing the resilience of the human spirit.

Willem Dafoe, the versatile actor known for roles from Jesus to the Green Goblin, discusses his latest role in the reimagined "Nosferatu." He dives into the depth of collaborating with director Robert Eggers, emphasizing the historical richness and immersive detail of the film. Dafoe aims to restore the vampire's fear factor in an age inundated with vampire tales. He also reflects on how acting shapes personal identity and navigates the evolving landscape of cinema, including the influence of streaming and social media.

Join James Taylor, the iconic singer-songwriter known for his emotional music and unique guitar style, in a captivating chat with Adam Gopnik, a seasoned New Yorker staff writer. They dive into Taylor's musical influences, from the Beatles to Brazilian rhythms, and share nostalgic tales of his journey from cello to guitar. The conversation sparkles with insights into spontaneous songwriting and the evolution of his sound. Listeners are treated to personal anecdotes and live performances that highlight the power of music to forge deep connections.

Annie Clark, known as St. Vincent, is a celebrated musician famed for her virtuosic guitar skills and inventive sound. In a fascinating discussion, she reflects on her evolution from explosive guitar solos to crafting ‘glamorously sad’ songs. Clark shares insights on her latest album, 'MASSEDUCTION,' and how mental health influences her art. She also explores the shift from traditional guitar to electronic sounds, revealing the emotional depth tied to her performances. Plus, there’s a playful take on what seduction means from an alien perspective!

Elvis Costello, a legendary musician known for his diverse sound and lyrical depth, shares insights about his latest album, 'Hey Clockface.' He reflects on his father's jazz influence and his early career while discussing his project 'Fifty Songs for Fifty Days,' which approaches political themes without clear agendas. Costello emphasizes the cyclical nature of social injustices that persist through generations, all while combining rich storytelling with atmospheric background sounds from his Vancouver home.

Cultural critics Alexandra Schwartz, Naomi Fry, and Vinson Cunningham dive into the shifting landscape of American musicals. They explore the enduring appeal of 'Wicked,' reflecting on its legacy and emotional depth. The trio compares it to other innovative works like 'Emilia Pérez' and 'Joker: Folie à Deux,' discussing how nostalgia meets modern storytelling. They also analyze the evolution of musicals, from the early 20th century to today's complexities, highlighting the importance of heightened realism and the emotional connections forged through music.

Rashid Khalidi, a professor emeritus at Columbia University and author of "The Hundred Years' War on Palestine," discusses the evolving Palestinian cause amid shifting Middle East dynamics. He critiques the limited support for Palestine from nations like Iran, emphasizing their self-interest. Khalidi also delves into the concept of settler colonialism, asserting it’s an accurate historical description of Israel’s actions, rather than an antisemitic slur. He highlights the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the need for justice and equality to achieve lasting peace.