The History of Literature

For decades, the Soviet Union was unfriendly territory for poets and writers. But what happened when the wall fell? Emerging from the underground, the poets reacted with a creative outpouring that responded to a brave new world. In this episode, Jacke talks to Russian poetry scholar Stephanie Sandler about her new book The Freest Speech in Russia: Poetry Unbound, 1989-2022, which shows how contemporary Russian poetry both expressed and exemplified freedom - and how that initial burst of freedom has responded to subsequent geopolitical developments. Additional listening: 130 The Poet and the Painter - The Great Love Affair of Anna Akhmatova and Amedeo Modigliani 479 Auden and the Muse of History (with Susannah Young-ah Gottlieb) 501 The Naked World (with Irina Mashinski) The music in this episode is by Gabriel Ruiz-Bernal. Learn more at gabrielruizbernal.com.Help support the show at patreon.com/literature or historyofliterature.com/donate. The History of Literature Podcast is a member of Lit Hub Radio and the Podglomerate Network. Learn more at thepodglomerate.com/historyofliterature. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Complex and talented, Charles W. Chesnutt (1858-1932) was one of the first American authors to write for both Black and white readers. Born in Cleveland to "mixed race" parents, Chesnutt rejected the opportunity to "pass" as white, instead remaining in the Black community throughout his life. His life in the South during Reconstruction, and his knowledge of both Black and white communities, made him one of America's sharpest observers of race in America during the postwar years. In this episode, Jacke talks to Chesnutt scholar Tess Chakkalakal about her book A Matter of Complexion: The Life and Fictions of Charles W. Chesnutt, which the New York Times Book Review says "asks the reader to see the 'First Negro Novelist' as he saw himself: a writer and student of American letters at a time when the literary marketplace struggled to take him seriously...a timely reminder of the influence of artists like Charles W. Chesnutt today, when perhaps only literature has the power to sustain us." PLUS: John Goodby (Dylan Thomas: A Critical Life) stops by to discuss his choice for the last book he will ever read.Additional listening: 526 "The Wife of His Youth" by Charles Chesnutt 677 Dylan Thomas (with John Goodby) 94 Smoke, Dusk, and Fire - The Jean Toomer Story The music in this episode is by Gabriel Ruiz-Bernal. Learn more at gabrielruizbernal.com.Help support the show at patreon.com/literature or historyofliterature.com/donate. The History of Literature Podcast is a member of Lit Hub Radio and the Podglomerate Network. Learn more at thepodglomerate.com/historyofliterature. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when a respected church leader shows up one day wearing a mysterious veil that conceals his eyes, offering no explanation - and keeps wearing it for decades? How will the community respond? What conspiracy theories will they develop? And how will an author like Nathaniel Hawthorne, writing a hundred years later, spin a New England sin-and-guilt anecdote into powerful literary gold? In this episode, Mike Palindrome, the President of the Literature Supporters Club, joins Jacke for a reading and discussion of Hawthorne's riveting short story "The Minister's Black Veil." Additional listening: 660 "Wakefield" by Nathaniel Hawthorne 461 The Peabody Sisters (with Megan Marshall) 297 The Scarlet Letter The music in this episode is by Gabriel Ruiz-Bernal. Learn more at gabrielruizbernal.com.Help support the show at patreon.com/literature or historyofliterature.com/donate. The History of Literature Podcast is a member of Lit Hub Radio and the Podglomerate Network. Learn more at thepodglomerate.com/historyofliterature. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this discussion, Cristanne Miller, a Marianne Moore scholar and expert on modernism, dives into the fascinating life of the renowned poet. She reveals how Moore's formal innovation and humor made her a beloved figure in both literary circles and popular culture. Notably, Moore proposed whimsical names for Ford cars, highlighting her creative spirit. The conversation also explores her meticulous revision process and the release of a digital archive that sheds new light on her notebooks, illustrating her complex contributions to literature and gender discussions.

Farah Jasmine Griffin, a Columbia University professor and author, dives into the profound insights of Black literature in her book, exploring its emotional resonance and cultural relevance. She shares how literature, especially poetry, illuminates themes of mercy and justice, reflecting on the voices of prominent African American writers. Scott Carter, a playwright, discusses Dickens's reimagining of the gospels, highlighting his unique narrative approach shaped by his tumultuous upbringing. Together, they unravel the beauty and power of literature in shaping societal conversations.

Dive into the complex world of nostalgia and identity as a character confronts his past in a hauntingly transformed New York. Explore themes of love, friendship, and the emotional impact of missed opportunities. Enjoy a profound dialogue about self-discovery amid spectral encounters, alongside a light-hearted discussion with Colm Tóibín about his choice for his last book. The intersection of literature and personal reflection comes alive with humor and insight, providing food for thought on life's enduring connections.

Henry James delves into the haunting introspection of Spencer Bryden, who wanders through his childhood home searching for lost parts of himself. The narrative explores themes of nostalgia and identity, as he confronts the allure of alternate realities. Bryden's transformation from prey to predator reveals a deeper psychological struggle with memory and fear. Doors symbolize missed opportunities, leading to tension as he grapples with his alter ego. This surreal journey forces Bryden to reflect on the choices shaping his existence and the haunting nature of his past.

Dive into the nostalgic world of Henry James and his complex feelings about his American roots. Explore Spencer Bryden's emotional return to a dramatically changed New York after 33 years. Unpack the rich themes of memory and identity as he reflects on a significant historic house, the Jolly Corner. Witness a deep conversation between Bryden and Miss Staverton, as they confront life choices, ambitions, and regrets. The haunting presence of the past looms large, creating a captivating interplay of sentiment and legacy.

Bartholomew Ryan, a philosopher and researcher at NOVA University, delves into the life of Portuguese modernist poet Fernando Pessoa, known for his over 100 alter-egos or heteronyms. They discuss Pessoa's innovative exploration of identity and existence, influenced by his diverse background. Renowned scholar Robin Waterfield joins to reflect on choosing Tolkien's 'Lord of the Rings' as his final read, sharing insights on the evolution of reading and the nuanced connections characters develop over time.

In this engaging conversation, John Goodby, a professor of arts and culture and co-author of the biography "Dylan Thomas: A Critical Life," dives deep into the complexities of Dylan Thomas's legacy. They discuss the misconceptions about Thomas, contrasting his mythical persona with the stark realities of his life. The discussion also touches on Emily Brontë's profound exploration of hope amidst darkness, revealing the resilience found in nature and adversity. This enlightening dialogue challenges popular stereotypes while celebrating the depth of both literary figures.