Entitled Opinions (about Life and Literature)

In this engaging discussion, Brian Pines, an expert on Nietzsche and Van Gogh, explores their remarkable year of 1888. He highlights the intersection of creativity and turmoil in their lives, focusing on their mental health struggles that shaped their legacies. Pines delves into the myth of Nietzsche's breakdown with a horse, revealing its dubious origins. He also contrasts their views on compassion during personal crises and examines Van Gogh's transformative artistic journey, illustrating the emotional depth and lasting influence of both figures.

Author Mark Gonnerman discusses bioregionalism and reinhabitation, inspired by Gary Snyder. They explore rooting in the earth, cultural landmarks, Gary Snyder's influence, and the importance of recovering native knowledge for sustainable coexistence.

A meandering monologue on rivers with our host, Professor Robert Harrison. Songs in this episode: “Getting Ready” by Frans Bak, and “You Better Move On” by Arthur Alexander.

Scott Thomas Anderson discusses crime in America, highlighting meth-driven rural crime and the failures of the 'war on drugs.' They explore the demoralization of rural communities, challenges in law enforcement dynamics, and the complex relationship between capitalism and the justice system.

Nate Klemp, philosopher and writer, talks about practicing mindfulness in a technology-dependent world. They discuss screen addiction, exploring new perspectives through gun culture and psychedelic therapy, the benefits of meditation and mindfulness, and the importance of nature for grounding and staying present.

Discussion on human technology and the blurring line between artificial and natural intelligence. Delve into the relationship between human nature, technology, and the strangeness of the human. Exploring the failures of artificial intelligence and the distraction of contemporary AI. Discussion on eccentricity, disruption of norms, and the role of norms in decision-making. Importance of historical norms and social conditions in human survival. Focus on anticipation and decision making.

In this episode, Robert Harrison concludes his series on Dante's Characters with a focus on Brunetto Latini, Dante's teacher. He explores Dante's unflattering portrayal of Latini and discusses the historical context of political factions in medieval Florence. Additionally, he delves into Dante's personal experiences of exile and loss, as well as his depiction of a homoerotic encounter. The episode concludes by examining Dante's vision of good and evil and the universal appeal of his work.

Delving into the character of Guido da Montefeltro, the host analyzes his punishment in hell and compares it to Ulysses. They discuss Guido's use of a provincial idiom and delve into his regrets and self-deception. The parallels between Guido and J. Alfred Prufrock are explored, questioning the genuineness of Guido's repentance. Themes of self-doubt, insecurities, and the passage of time are also reflected upon.

Explore Dante's Ulysses, his thirst for knowledge and worldly experiences, and the parallels between his journey and Dante's own adventure in the Divine Comedy. Delve into the contrasting portrayals of Ulysses in Tennyson's and Dante's works, and the symbolism of Ulysses in Western expansionism. Reflect on the need to accept limitations and embrace solitude in the face of a finite world.

In this podcast, Professor Robert Harrison discusses Dante's captivating characters in his Divine Comedy. He explores the irony and deception in the sinners' monologues and analyzes Francesca da Rimini's tragic fate and passionate encounter. The podcast also delves into the intersection of Nietzsche and Francesca's happiness.