Hermitix

Dive into the intricate world of Thomas Bernhard's The Lime Works. Explore the peculiar characters and their haunting circumstances, including a chilling murder. Unpack Bernhard's unique style, where repetition and a musical quality draw readers in. Delve into themes of perfectionism, paralysis, and the struggle for genuine communication. Analyze Conrad's auditory delusions and question whether his methods are mad or methodical. Experience a claustrophobic atmosphere that mirrors Bernhard's pessimistic view, while appreciating his humor and lack of moral judgment.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Steve Dowden, a Professor of German literature, and John Burt, an esteemed Professor of American Literature, delve into Thomas Mann's "Doctor Faustus." They explore the intertwining of art and politics, discussing Mann's critique of cultural exhaustion and the demonic qualities within art. Insights into Leverkühn’s ambitions, his failures in love, and the implications of his pact with the devil reveal deeper meanings. The conversation also touches on the impact of Adorno and the troubling absence of anti-Semitism in Mann's portrayal.

Brook Ziporyn, the Mircea Eliade Professor at the University of Chicago, delves into the intriguing interplay between Eastern and Western philosophies. He explores how the Platonic focus on purpose shaped Western monotheism and contrasts it with Chinese perspectives, particularly through the lens of Daoism and Confucianism. His discussion on wu-wei as a critique of theistic norms is thought-provoking. Brook also examines concepts of selfhood in Zhuangzi and Buddhism, linking the multiplicity of identities to the universality of suffering and its potential for liberation.

Explore the fascinating tale of Hiro Onoda, a soldier who held out in the jungle for 29 years, as discussed through Herzog's anti-sentimental lens. Delve into the jungle's role as a fierce antagonist, where time becomes distorted and paranoia reigns. Uncover the contrast between Onoda's inner struggles and the stark reality of postwar Japan, leading to his deep disappointment upon return. The narrative weaves dream logic with human experience, showcasing Herzog's unique writing style that leaves a lasting impression.

Devaraj Sandberg, a body-based therapist and author, dives into the transformative world of bioenergetics, sharing his tumultuous journey through trauma, drug use, and ultimately, self-discovery. He explains how bodywork enhances self-awareness and emotional release, contrasting it with traditional talk therapy. Devaraj highlights energy liberation's connection to sexuality and spirituality, while cautioning against the risks of kundalini experiences. He offers practical exercises for beginners and advocates for preserving powerful somatic techniques to enrich future practices.

Dive into the rich themes of James Harpur's latest work, exploring the dynamic between a poet and a grounded gargoyle amidst the backdrop of Notre Dame's fiery past. Discover the tension between transcendence and rootedness in their contrasting perspectives. The discussion flows through the interplay of modernity and medieval symbolism, leading to deeper insights on belief and imagination. Experience the gargoyle's longing for faith and recognition, culminating in revelations about nonduality and the essence of creation.

Jakub Kowalewski, a philosopher and author known for his work on eco-apocalypticism, shares intriguing insights about climate-related fears. He delves into the multiple meanings of apocalypse, reflecting on its historical persistence. Kowalewski outlines three responses to climate apocalypticism, examines secular and religious parallels, and discusses how failed prophecies can resurface. He challenges the idea of systemic change versus capitalism and explores the role of ideology in our apocalyptic narratives, urging a rethinking of meaning and action.

Join Todd McGowan, a noted academic and author on psychoanalysis and film theory, as he delves into Jacques Lacan's groundbreaking ideas. Discover how McGowan's personal journey with Lacan transformed his thinking. He argues for simplification to make Lacan accessible, tackles the intersection of psychoanalysis and politics, and debates individual versus collective interpretations of Lacanian thought. Plus, insights on Lacan's unique view of truth and the challenges of living without foundational fictions await you!

The host dives into Wilhelm Reich's provocative work, highlighting its transformation from scientific rigor to prophetic outcry. They reveal Reich's portrayal of the 'little man' as a figure of approval-seeking and insecurity. Discussing armoring, they connect it to emotional and physical symptoms, like anxiety and impotence. The cultural implications of Reich's orgasm model point to chronic dissatisfaction. The conversation explores how fear and self-loathing influence mass politics, ultimately framing love as a counterforce against tyranny.

Toby Chappell, a musician, writer, and lecturer specializing in language and magic, dives deep into the life of Charles Sanders Peirce. He explores Peirce's unique triadic sign model, detailing how icons, indexes, and symbols function in meaning-making. Chappell discusses Peirce's pragmatic maxim and the role of abduction in hypothesis generation. He also critiques modern AI through Peirce's lens, emphasizing the importance of lived experience. This engaging conversation highlights Peirce's lasting influence on philosophy and language.