The History of Literature

From the beginning of his career as a poet, W.H. Auden wrestled with the meaning of Englishness. He came out with a collection of poems entitled On This Island, but what exactly was this island? A world in ruins? A beautiful (if morally compromised) haven? In this episode, Jacke talks to Nicholas Jenkins (The Island: War and Belonging in Auden's England) about Auden's relationship with the land of his birth, including his preoccupations with the vicissitudes of war, the trials of love, and the problems of identity. PLUS Italian scholar Gabriele Pedullà (On Niccolò Machiavelli: The Bonds of Politics) stops by to discuss his choice for the last book he will ever read.Additional listening: 595 Machiavelli (with Gabriele Pedulla) 479 Auden and the Muse of History (with Susannah Young-ah Gottlieb) 138 Why Poetry (with Matthew Zapruder) 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

Chigozie Obioma, a celebrated Nigerian-born novelist known for works like "The Fishermen" and "An Orchestra of Minorities," shares insights from his journey as a storyteller. He recounts his childhood in Nigeria, revealing how a pivotal hospital experience sparked his passion for writing. The conversation dives into his admiration for Kazuo Ishiguro's "The Remains of the Day," exploring its thematic depth. Obioma also reflects on his family's evolving acceptance of his literary ambitions, highlighting the complexities of literary craft and cultural narratives.

Join Laurie Frankel, acclaimed novelist known for "This Is How It Always Is," and Mike Palindrome, the enthusiastic President of the Literature Supporters Club, as they explore the intriguing concept of literary guilty pleasures. They share humorous anecdotes about their reading habits and the joy of indulging in supposedly 'bad' literature. The conversation also dances between nostalgia for childhood favorites and the allure of neglected genres, prompting a delightful talk on why literature should be savored without guilt. Plus, a special guest gives insights on the ultimate last book choice!

Emily Van Duyne, an associate professor and author of "Loving Sylvia Plath: A Reclamation," dives deep into the life and misunderstood legacy of Sylvia Plath. They discuss Plath's tumultuous relationship with Ted Hughes and the distortions surrounding her narrative. Van Duyne examines the reception of Plath's poetry through the years, challenging the romanticized views constructed posthumously. The conversation emphasizes the importance of reclaiming Plath's voice, highlighting her critiques of societal roles and personal struggles, paving the way for a more nuanced understanding of her work.

Explore the multifaceted life of J.D. Salinger, from his challenging childhood to his incredible success as a writer. Discover how his World War II experiences shaped the iconic Holden Caulfield. Dive into the bittersweet nostalgia of youth and the complexities of fame and reclusiveness that Salinger grappled with. Uncover the emotional depth of his characters and how his journey continues to inspire new generations of writers seeking their true voices.

Award-winning novelist Charles Baxter dives into the art of writing a comic novel, discussing his new book that weaves humor with a commentary on troubled America. The conversation also touches on the influence of Midwestern literature and ethical quandaries in tech-driven narratives. Bill Eville shares the last book he’d choose to read, revealing how personal stories shape literary connections. The episode humorously critiques modern masculinity and explores literature’s quiet moments, offering a rich tapestry of storytelling insights.

Douglas Burton, a novelist and storyteller, discusses his groundbreaking book, The Heroine's Labyrinth, which redefines female hero narratives. He dives into Joseph Campbell's concept of the hero's journey, highlighting its limitations for women. Burton argues for a new storytelling paradigm that captures the unique challenges heroines face, contrasting it with traditional male arcs. They also explore how societal norms shape female protagonists' adventures and emphasize the importance of gender-neutral storytelling in contemporary literature.

Joseph Luzzi, a Professor of Literature at Bard College and author on Dante, dives deep into Dante's Divine Comedy. He shares its breathtaking themes of redemption and morality through personal anecdotes and humor. Luzzi explores Dante's unique choice of the Tuscan dialect and how his political views shaped his literary legacy. The conversation also touches on Dante’s complex characters, the interplay of love and punishment, and how these ideas resonate in modern culture. Prepare for a captivating journey through literature’s timeless relevance!

Collin Jennings, a former assistant professor and author, shares insights on how computational methods illuminate 18th-century literature. He highlights the role of print technology in transforming literary engagement and the innovative narrative structures of that era. Mike Palindrome passionately discusses Hemingway's 'A Moveable Feast,' exploring its reflections on Parisian life and literary camaraderie. Finally, David L. Cooper considers the legacy of forgery in literature, sharing his choice for his last book, which intertwines personal and national narratives.

Join Alex Vernon, a Hemingway expert and author, and Sandra Spanier, General Editor of Hemingway's Letters, as they dive into the complexities of 'For Whom the Bell Tolls.' They unpack the evolving perceptions of Hemingway's work, focusing on themes of heroism and sacrifice through Robert Jordan’s journey in the Spanish Civil War. The conversation reveals how historical context enriches understanding, and they touch on the profound impact of Hemingway's prose over the decades. Plus, discover Spanier's choice for her last literary read!