Sophomore Lit

Dive into the dark depths of Joseph Conrad's 'Heart of Darkness' as the hosts dissect colonialism, imperialism, and the enigmatic character of Kurtz. Explore the mastery of Conrad's language, the conflicting ideologies of the era, and the subtle critique of European colonialism within the narrative. Unravel the themes of invasion fiction in Victorian literature and the complexities of interpreting the layers of meaning within the story.

In this episode, the hosts discuss Mark Twain's 'Tom Sawyer' and their personal history with the novel. They explore the satirical elements in Twain's writing, the evolution of Happy Days, and Tom Sawyer's theme of nostalgia and disillusionment. The speakers also delve into the relevance and popularity of the book today, discuss the connection between 'Huckleberry Finn' and 'Tom Sawyer Detective', and speculate on Mark Twain's financial difficulties.

Actually, I need this sea in an extra wide. Caroline Fulford discusses postcolonialism and recurring fires in Jean Rhys’s Wide Sargasso Sea (1966). John McCoy with Caroline Fulford Support this show and other shows like it on The Incomparable network by becoming a member. Members get early access to podcasts, bonus episodes, and more.

The Burgermeister Meisterburger has nothing on this burglar! My wife Marina joins me for our annual Christmas episode. This time we discuss Willa Cather’s “The Burglar’s Christmas” (1896). John McCoy with Marina McCoy Support this show and other shows like it on The Incomparable network by becoming a member. Members get early access to podcasts, bonus episodes, and more.

The waiting is the hardest part. Ross Cleaver and James Randall discuss the apocalypse, palace intrigue, and the charm of 80’s BBC television in this episode about John Christopher’s The Prince in Waiting (1970). John McCoy with Ross Cleaver and James Randall Support this show and other shows like it on The Incomparable network by becoming a member. Members get early access to podcasts, bonus episodes, and more.

In this Thanksgiving special, the podcast hosts discuss Benjamin Franklin's Poor Richard's Almanack. They explore Franklin's life and influence, the success of the almanac, and its quirky sayings. Reflecting on aging, they discuss aphorisms from the almanac and the concept of eccentricity, using Franklin as an example.

Raggedy Ann, Barbie, Chucky—they’re all here. That’s what this book is about, right? Erin Gambrill discusses Jacqueline Susann’s Valley of the Dolls (1966). John McCoy Sponsors Incomparable Memberships!: Sign up, support our show, and get access to exclusive podcasts! Referenced Works Valley of the Dolls (novel) Show Notes & Links Valley of the Dolls (1967) Trailer for the movie adaptation starring Barbara Parkins, Patty Duke, and Sharon Tate Support this show and other shows like it on The Incomparable network by becoming a member. Members get early access to podcasts, bonus episodes, and more.

Why just sit around waiting for the end of the world when you can hear a podcast about it? Jelani Sims discusses Nevil Shute’s On the Beach (1957). John McCoy with Jelani Sims Sponsors Incomparable Memberships!: Sign up, support our show, and get access to exclusive podcasts! Show Notes & Links On the Beach (1959) Stanley Kramer’s film adaptation, on YouTube. Support this show and other shows like it on The Incomparable network by becoming a member. Members get early access to podcasts, bonus episodes, and more.

Kids today love Thucydides, right? Anyone? Daniel Daughhetee returns to discuss this late fifth century BCE chronicle of Athens v. Sparta. John McCoy with Daniel Daughetee Show Notes & Links Map of the Peloponnesian Wars Follow along at home! Support this show and other shows like it on The Incomparable network by becoming a member. Members get early access to podcasts, bonus episodes, and more.

It’s a naive literary podcast without any breeding, but I think you’ll be amused by its presumption. Dan Cassino discusses James Thurber’s “The Catbird Seat” (1942) and The 13 Clocks (1950). John McCoy with Dan Cassino Support this show and other shows like it on The Incomparable network by becoming a member. Members get early access to podcasts, bonus episodes, and more.