Critics at Large | The New Yorker
Critics at Large is a weekly culture podcast from The New Yorker. Every Thursday, the staff writers Vinson Cunningham, Naomi Fry, and Alexandra Schwartz discuss current obsessions, classic texts they’re revisiting with fresh eyes, and trends that are emerging across books, television, film, and more. The show runs the gamut of the arts and pop culture, with lively, surprising conversations about everything from Salman Rushdie to “The Real Housewives.” Through rigorous analysis and behind-the-scenes insights into The New Yorker’s reporting, the magazine’s critics help listeners make sense of our moment—and how we got here.
Latest episodes
8 snips
Oct 5, 2023 • 41min
Taylor Swift Is Everywhere All at Once
Taylor Swift's complete domination over popular culture is discussed by staff writers Vinson Cunningham, Naomi Fry, Alexandra Schwartz, and Amanda Petrusich. Topics include Swiftie fandom, Swift's 'you guys' energy, turning online censure into content, and whether current collective events mark a new golden age of the mainstream.
Sep 28, 2023 • 39min
The Myth-Making of Elon Musk
The podcast discusses the myth-making of Elon Musk, examining how the idea of the unimpeachable Silicon Valley founder has lost its sheen. They explore the shift in public perception of tech founders and the disillusionment of millennials. The conversation also delves into the appeal of narratives centered around a single protagonist and the importance of including diverse voices in storytelling.
Sep 28, 2023 • 38min
What Is Cringecore, and Why Is It Everywhere?
In this podcast, the hosts explore the emerging trend of 'cringecore' in television, discussing shows like 'Nathan for You' and 'How To with John Wilson' that blur the line between reality and artifice. They examine the skepticism of reality and fascination with discomfort that draws viewers to these shows. The podcast also delves into topics like the manipulation of reality, cringe aesthetics and neurodivergence, the blurred boundary between reality and fiction, embracing cringe, and the desire to feel something through comfort cringe.
Sep 21, 2023 • 3min
Introducing: Critics at Large
Critics at Large is a weekly culture podcast where New Yorker staff writers discuss current obsessions, classic texts, and emerging trends. They delve into topics like TikTok comedy, the resurgence of Greek mythology, and the connection between the great-man theory of history and Elon Musk. Join them for insightful analysis and behind-the-scenes insights into the arts.
