The Common Reader

Zena Hitz, a philosopher and tutor at St. John’s College, passionately discusses her love for the Great Books and their impact on personal growth. She shares insights on Shakespeare’s complex relationships, emphasizing how age alters our understanding of his themes. Zena advocates for the value of direct engagement with literature over secondary sources. The conversation also touches on the nostalgic magic of children’s literature, her reflections on immersive education, and the hidden virtues of nuns in society.

In this discussion with Marion Turner, the esteemed J.R.R. Tolkien Professor of English at Oxford and author of "Chaucer: A European Life," intriguing topics unfold. They explore how the printing press transformed the English language and literature. Turner highlights Chaucer's use of science in poetry and his profound influence on Shakespeare. Additionally, she discusses the merits of engaging with Chaucer's work through both translations and original texts, and how his narratives reflect on morality and individuality.

Naomi Kanakia, a novelist and critic known for her Substack 'Woman of Letters' and her upcoming book on the Great Books, dives into the evolving landscape of literature. She discusses the homogeneity of modern fiction and critiques many so-called Great Books while emphasizing the importance of classic literature. The conversation also explores the intersection of literature and economics, alongside the impact of commercialization in publishing. Kanakia argues for a richer portrayal of class issues in contemporary stories, pushing for authenticity in today’s narratives.

I was delighted to talk to the novelist Catherine Lacey, whose book Biography of X I admired very much indeed. We talked about personal websites, how she learned to code in HTML, 9 Beet Stretch, her writing on Substack (Untitled Thought Project), biography as a genre, modern novels, figurative art, Derek Parfit, MFAs, fiction and non-fiction, short stories, Merve Emre, W.S. Merwin, television, and plenty more. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.commonreader.co.uk/subscribe

Nabeel Qureshi, a literary enthusiast and tech-savvy academic, dives deep into the transformative power of literature. He explores how serious literature influences life stages and the challenges of engaging non-readers. Qureshi discusses the intersection of technology and literature, stressing that online platforms can enhance literary appreciation. The conversation also touches on autofiction, Shakespeare's accessibility, and the impact of AI on storytelling. Along the way, listeners receive book recommendations and insights into the evolving landscape of literary criticism.

I always enjoy corresponding with Hollis Robbins (@Anecdotal) and was therefore delighted to talk to her about poetry and literature. It’s a wonderful conversation that ranges across so many books and ideas. We covered why there is no crisis in the humanities, why you should read Walter Scott, our favourite modern poets (Hollis: Terrance Hayes; Henry: Sally Read—I like her book Day Hospital very much), Regency video games, the role of AI in teaching, AI and poetry, how Hollis would change the way literature is taught, memorising poetry, Shakespeare, why the 1850s was such a remarkable literary decade, and so so much more! Her peroration at the end about literature and education is especially exciting.The two Utah poets Hollis mentions are Jacqueline Osherow and Craig Dworkin. Osherow had a sonnet in the New Yorker recently. Hollis is here on Substack where she has been writing interestingly about academia and Bridgerton, and why English majors should become plumbers. She has a deep knowledge of poetry and I hope she’ll be writing about that too. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.commonreader.co.uk/subscribe

James Marriott, a Times columnist covering literature, culture, and the millennial experience, shares intriguing insights on reading habits. He discusses why men should embrace novels, emphasizing their emotional depth rather than moral lessons. The conversation shifts to the cultural snobbery surrounding fiction versus nonfiction, and how literary works, from Iris Murdoch to Harry Potter, shape personal identities. Marriott provocatively reflects on pretentiousness in literature and the evolving nature of high culture in today's countercultural landscape.

In this discussion, A.N. Wilson, a prolific novelist and biographer known for his works on Iris Murdoch and Prince Albert, shares insights on Goethe’s extensive influence on literature and psychology. He highlights Goethe's connections to Freud and Jung while reflecting on literary giants like Dickens and Jenkins. Wilson also delves into the complexities of faith, exploring the notion of 'Anglo-agnosticism.' With his new book on Goethe, he brings a fresh perspective on the intersection of art and science, celebrating the depth of literary exploration.

In this engaging conversation, Tyler Cowen, author of "GOAT: Greatest Of All Time" and a renowned economist, dives deep into the philosophies of John Stuart Mill. He explores Mill's lasting influence on modern economics and social thought, emphasizing themes of individualism and education. The discussion also uncovers Mill's complex views on morality, particularly regarding personal relationships and justice. Readers are encouraged to navigate his works, as Cowen highlights key texts and the importance of humanities in a quantitatively driven world.

Noah Smith, an economics blogger known for his engaging Substack, dives into the fascinating world of late bloomers—those who discover their passions later in life. He discusses the flexibility of intelligence and the vital roles of motivation and parental influence. The conversation spans career choices shaped by economic incentives and cultural perspectives on women in STEM. Smith also shares insights on the importance of community, shared interests like anime, and the balance between early life pressures and the value of exploration.