The History of Literature

J. Michael Lennon, an accomplished editor and close associate of Norman Mailer, shares captivating insights into Mailer's life and work. They discuss the impact of 'The Naked and the Dead' on war literature, revealing how Mailer articulated veterans' struggles. Lennon highlights the personal connections literature fosters, especially regarding storytelling's transformative power. They also delve into Mailer's creative processes and the deep friendships he cultivated, painting a complex portrait of this literary giant.

In this conversation, scholar Ramie Targoff, an expert in women's literary contributions from Shakespeare's era, reveals how women like Aemilia Lanyer defied societal limitations to carve out their own literary identities. They discuss Virginia Woolf's insights on challenges faced by female writers and highlight influential figures like Mary Sidney and Elizabeth Carey, who navigated a male-dominated world. Targoff also shares the importance of unearthing these voices and the enduring impact they have on literature today.

Join Will Tosh, head of research at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, as he delves into the intriguing question of Shakespeare's sexuality. He challenges conventional perceptions, arguing that the focus should be on understanding intimacy and identity in Elizabethan England. The discussion also shifts to Ray Bradbury's early inspirations connected to a mysterious carnival figure, exploring how such encounters shape creativity and literature's societal responsibilities. Discover how queer identities weave through Shakespeare's works and their lasting impact on culture.

For thousands of years, desperate writers have struggled with the condition known as writer's block. In this episode, Jacke talks to novelist Kate Feiffer about her book Morning Pages, in which a playwright on a tight deadline tries Julia Cameron's trick of starting her day with some stream-of-consciousness writing - with results that threaten to be more hilarious than productive. 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. Music Credits: “⁠Handel – Entrance to the Queen of Sheba⁠” by Advent Chamber Orchestra (From the ⁠Free Music Archive⁠ / ⁠CC by SA⁠). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is it really true? Did the Elizabethan poet Emilia Bassano (sometimes known as Aemelia Lanyer) actually write Shakespeare's works? A bestselling novelist thinks so - and she's turned her research-based theories into an entertaining and thought-provoking work of fiction. In this episode, Jacke talks to Jodi Picoult about her new book BY ANY OTHER NAME, which tells the story of a modern-day playwright who discovers her ancestor Emilia Bassano's tantalizing connection to Shakespeare and the works traditionally ascribed to him. PLUS Allison Pataki (Finding Margaret Fuller) stops by to discuss her choice for the last book she will ever read.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 www.thepodglomerate.com/historyofliterature. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's one of the most famous and admired short stories that Ernest Hemingway ever wrote - and also one of the most controversial. In this episode, Hemingway expert Mark Cirino (host of the One True Podcast) joins Jacke for a discussion of "Hills Like White Elephants," in which a terse exchange between two lovers in a remote Spanish train station reveals a profound moral and existential crisis. (NOTE: Never read the story? Or maybe it's been a while? Fear not! The episode also contains a reading of the story, to bring you back up to speed.)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 www.thepodglomerate.com/historyofliterature. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Matt Abrahams, an expert in effective speaking, shares insights on harnessing storytelling for success in daily communication. He emphasizes structured storytelling's power to engage and clarify messages. Joining him, Mike Palindrome discusses the timeless relevance of Roland Barthes’ critiques, particularly in understanding culture and media. They challenge listeners to explore language's intricacies and apply literary techniques to improve their own storytelling skills for personal and professional growth.

Liz Rosenberg, a biographer and editor dedicated to Louisa May Alcott, sheds light on Alcott's lesser-known essays and their rich context. They discuss the powerful role of women as nurses during the Civil War, which deeply influenced Alcott's work. The conversation also delves into the complexities of Alcott's life, contrasting her public persona with her private struggles and unconventional views on marriage. By examining the blend of humor and sorrow in her writings, they reveal the enduring legacy of this iconic author.

Laurie Frankel, a celebrated author known for her novel 'Family,' joins theater expert James Shapiro to explore the fleeting magic of performances. They discuss the thrill of imagining historical theater experiences and share their must-see productions. Shapiro also reveals his choice for the last book he’d ever read, invoking deep reflections on storytelling. The conversation flows through the impact of shared tragedies and the dynamic between performance and audience, highlighting how theatrical experiences shape our emotional connections.

Translator Glynne Walley discusses the epic Japanese novel 'The Hakkenden, or Eight Dogs' with deep insights. The podcast explores the historical context, challenges of translation, and the novel's influence on Japanese literature and culture. Additionally, it delves into the intersection of literature and the Olympics, highlighting the unique art competitions held during the early years of the games.