The History of Literature

Laurie Frankel, a novelist known for her insightful stories, shares details about her upcoming novel, Enormous Wings, featuring a surprising twist involving a 77-year-old woman's unexpected pregnancy. Mike Palindrome, a reading organizer, talks about engaging slow-read projects focused on classic literature from 1965-1975. They discuss the cultural climate of that decade, making recommendations like A.L. Doctorow's Ragtime and Flannery O'Connor's short stories. The episode reflects on gratitude and the rich literary landscape shaped by these transformative years.

Catherine Rayner, a Brontë expert and nurse, dives into the complex dynamics of the Brontë siblings, particularly Charlotte's unexpected rise as the family's leader after tragic early losses. She explores how sibling rivalry shaped their lives and writings, revealing the tension when Charlotte faced rejection while Emily and Anne found success. Rayner also sheds light on Branwell's struggles, the family's psychological challenges, and their unique coping mechanisms through fantasy and creativity. Additionally, author Keith Cooper shares his thoughts on the last book he'd read, blending humor with profound implications on existence.

Nilou Tabrizi, an investigative reporter specializing in open-source visual forensics, shares her deep insights on Iran's Women-Led Uprising that followed the tragic death of Mahsa Jîna Amini. She highlights the powerful symbols of protest, the high-profile arrests, and the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists. Additionally, Dr. Sharmila Sen, Harvard's Editorial Director, reflects on the significance of classic Indian literature and shares her poignant choice for the final book she would ever read, blending personal nostalgia with cultural reflection.

Mark Cirino, a Hemingway scholar and editor, joins the conversation to delve into A Farewell to Arms, discussing the novel's connection between love and war, and Hemingway's anti-heroic portrayal of conflict. The talk covers Hemingway’s lean writing style and the vivid minor characters that enrich the narrative. Ken Krimstein, graphic novelist renowned for Einstein in Kafkaland, shares his thoughts on the last book he'd choose to read, reflecting on literary preferences and iconic works. Additionally, Joyce Carol Oates' online spar with a billionaire is analyzed for its commentary on wealth and meaning.

Douglas Clark, a Tutor at the University of Oxford and author of The Will in English Renaissance Drama, dives into the fascinating theme of willpower in early modern drama. He explores Hamlet's shift from 'brain' to 'will,' highlighting the deep implications of these concepts on selfhood and morality. Clark discusses how playwrights like Shakespeare utilized the notion of the will to critique societal norms, particularly women's constraints imposed by patriarchal wills, revealing the dramatic tensions at play. A rich conversation on the intersection of philosophy and literature!

Gerri Kimber, a literary scholar and biographer, delves into the fascinating life of Katherine Mansfield, whose writing evoked jealousy in Virginia Woolf. They discuss Mansfield's rebellious nature, her complicated relationships, and the impact of societal norms on her creative spirit. Kimber sheds light on Mansfield's mastery of modernist short stories and how her early talent paved the way for her literary significance. The conversation also touches on W.H. Auden’s unusual friendship with a sex worker and Kenneth Sacks’ choice for his last read, revealing deeper layers of literary history.

Ilya Vinitsky, a Princeton professor and author of *The Graphomaniac*, and James H. McGavran III, a translator specializing in Russian literature, dive into the world of Dmitry Khvostov—dubiously deemed the worst poet ever. They discuss Khvostov's bizarre stylistic choices and how his 'badness' defined literary standards in Russia. Ilya shares a humorous take on scholarly critique, while James highlights the challenges of translating such whimsical poetry. Stephanie Sandler also joins to discuss her last book choice, bridging the past with today's literary joys.

Devoney Looser, an English professor and Jane Austen scholar at Arizona State University, reveals her fascinating dual life as a roller derby performer known as Stone Cold Jane Austen. In a spirited conversation, she discusses her new book, which champions a reimagined, rebellious Austen. Looser highlights Austen's overlooked 'wild' side and her feminist nuances. She also explores Austen's sympathy for social outcasts and her ironic narrative style that challenges moralizing norms. Expect a fresh perspective on Austen and her impact across generations!

Explore the haunting allure of Christina Rossetti's "Goblin Market," a poem about two sisters lured by fruit-selling goblins. Delve into themes of temptation, addiction, and sisterly sacrifice, while Jacke unravels the vivid imagery and moral implications. Discover Rossetti's contrasting life as a devout Anglican and a daring poet. The blend of her religious introspection and compelling artistry creates an unforgettable narrative that challenges societal norms and celebrates the bond between sisters.

Caroline Lea, a novelist known for her works like Love, Sex, and Frankenstein, dives deep into the life of Mary Shelley during the pivotal summer of 1816. She discusses how loss and isolation influenced Shelley's creativity and the birth of her Gothic masterpiece. Jeffrey Ternofsky, a French literature professor, shares his thoughts on choosing a 'last book,' reflecting on the intersections between reading, libraries, and personal connection to literature. The conversation weaves together themes of motherhood, idealism, and the shadows of literary history.