Strong Message Here

If you're interested in fantasy, and fancy taking on a responsibility equivalent to a part-time job, Helen recommends Elden Ring. A wildly popular Japanese video game which allows you to live in a world created by George RR Martin. With place and character names reminiscent of Lord of the Rings, we ask why that is the accepted register of fantasy. Could it be the detail and care which Tolkien gave to his languages, and the sounds of words denoting a sense of place, building a rich landscape? And with companies coming out of Silicon Valley with names like 'Palantir' and 'Mithril', why are the Tech-Right so obsessed with his creations?Helen also grills Armando on his video-gaming history (whatever the audio equivalent of a 'blink' is, do that, and you'll miss it).Join Helen and Armando over the summer for more cultural recommendations, available weekly on BBC Sounds.Production Coordinator: Sarah Nicholls Executive Producer: Pete Strauss Sound Editing: Chris Maclean Recorded at The Sound CompanyStrong Message Here: Strong Recommend is produced by Gwyn Rhys Davies and is a BBC Studios production for Radio 4.

In 1998, a Japanese man was filmed in solitary confinement for our entertainment. Naked as the day he was born, which led to his suggestive nickname, the Japanese people were gripped by Tomoaki Hamatsu's journey. Today, can we see how reality TV has infected our storytelling and our language? Whether it's someone in Big Brother proudly declaring they'll 'say it to your face' or an Apprentice-host-turned-President telling you 'you're fired' - are these reality shows replacing the art of storytelling?And Armando asks 'what is structured reality?', 'What is America's Next Top Model, and, more generally, 'What?!'.Join Helen and Armando over the summer for more cultural recommendations, available weekly on BBC Sounds.Production Coordinator: Sarah Nicholls Executive Producer: Pete Strauss Sound Editing: Chris Maclean Recorded at The Sound CompanyStrong Message Here: Strong Recommend is produced by Gwyn Rhys Davies and is a BBC Studios production for Radio 4.

Dive into the fascinating world of shamanism and its relevance today. Explore how traditional practices inform modern spirituality and leadership. The discussion challenges whether ayahuasca retreats are ego-driven or enlightening. Discover the connections between ritual, authority, and our fascination with figures like Thatcher. Unpack the shift from medical authority to patient empowerment and question our ongoing search for spiritual experiences in a contemporary context. This conversation blends ancient wisdom with modern cultural critiques.

Fancy trying a new author, but don't know where to start? Armando recommends a short novel by Penelope Fitzgerald, and Helen shares a tip on how to try on a new author for size before committing.Join Helen and Armando over the summer for more cultural recommendations, available weekly on BBC Sounds.Production Coordinator: Sarah Nicholls Executive Producer: Pete Strauss Sound Editing: Chris Maclean Recorded at The Sound CompanyStrong Message Here: Strong Recommend is produced by Gwyn Rhys Davies and is a BBC Studios production for Radio 4.

The podcast dives into the vibrant world of theatre with a focus on the new production of Evita at the London Palladium. It highlights an exhilarating moment that captivates both audiences near the venue and those inside. The speakers discuss innovative directing techniques that bridge the gap between performers and the public, fostering audience engagement. Humorous stories from the stage reveal the challenges comedians face with crowd reactions, making a case for the immersive power of live performance. Don't miss their cultural insights!

Armando Iannucci and Helen Lewis dive into the labyrinth of political language through the lens of Shakespeare's 'Richard II.' They explore the protagonist's internal struggles with identity and madness, revealing the emotional depth behind the text. The conversation highlights themes of despair and power while drawing intriguing parallels to modern politics. With a mix of humor and insightful analysis, they uncover Shakespeare's political courage and its relevance today, making for a compelling discussion.

Dive into the fascinating world of taxonomy with insights from Carl Linnaeus and Comte de Buffon. Discover the quirky tensions between rigid classifications and flexible interpretations of species. The discussion takes a turn as it unpacks the historical roots of racial classifications and their lingering effects today. You’ll also explore how taxonomy connects with art and music, highlighting humorous takes on big cat hybrids and the impact of seminal texts on cultural canons.

The discussion dives into the charm of The Ballad of Wallis Island, highlighting its unique blend of comedy and emotion inspired by the protagonist's heartfelt intentions. They unpack the hurdles faced by filmmakers and theater producers in the streaming era, including a poignant tale of restrictive contracts. The conversation shifts to the evolving landscape of film and theater, tackling issues like waning cinema attendance, the pandemic's impact, and the need for adaptability to keep storytelling vibrant and engaging.

Helen and Armando dissect a year of Labour government talk, exploring the struggle of political language to resonate. They analyze intriguing phrases like 'tepid bath of managed decline' and discuss the challenges of communicating complex policies on growth and welfare. The duo dives into AI's role in healthcare, highlighting ethical dilemmas and the societal impact of technology. They reflect on the evolution of political rhetoric, inspired by Orwell, and tease insightful recommendations for understanding language in today's political climate.

Helen Lewis returns with a lively discussion on the language surrounding Net Zero and the challenges of making climate issues relatable. They dive into the phenomenon of 'alert fatigue' and the overwhelming state of current global crises. Exploring skepticism around climate policies, the hosts critique the balance between personal action and technological solutions. The conversation also touches on media bias, particularly regarding sensitive political narratives, making for a thought-provoking and entertaining analysis of today's pressing topics.