On the Road with Penguin Classics

Ruth Franklin, an award-winning biographer and journalist known for her work on Shirley Jackson, joins the discussion in a haunting exploration of the Everett Mansion, possibly the inspiration for Jackson's classic. They unpack the psychological themes of 'The Haunting of Hill House,' linking Eleanor Vance's isolation to the eerie architecture of the mansion. Franklin also discusses the challenges of bringing Jackson's characters to life and how the haunting elements reflect deeper struggles with identity and belonging, perfect for this Halloween season.

On the Road with Penguin Classics is the literary podcast that takes a stroll around the world's favourite books. In each episode, author Henry Eliot travels to a different location to discuss a great work of literature with a different guest.In series four, Henry's guests include Monica Ali, Katherine Rundell, Simon Callow, Marina Warner, Caryl Phillips, Anil Seth and Philip Pullman. They discuss the love stories of Jane Austen and James Baldwin, the fantasies of Charles Dickens and Angela Carter, the thrillers of Raymond Chandler and Anthony Burgess, the horrors of Mary Shelley and Shirley Jackson and the poetry of John Donne and William Blake. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dive into a whimsical world where literary trivia reigns supreme! Discover the quirky kingdom of Redonda and its eccentric claimants. Explore James Joyce's 'Finnegan's Wake' through its fascinating 'thunder words.' Unravel the absurdities of lists with Borges and meet charming authors with peculiar habits. Laugh at the intertwining tales of Christmas carols and the introduction of starlings by a Shakespearean enthusiast. It's an enchanting mix of humor and literary insight sure to delight any book lover!

Join novelist Rachel Joyce and John Pestell, a Bunyan enthusiast, as they trace the pilgrimage of Christian from Bedford to the Celestial City. They explore Bunyan's life, his spiritual journey, and the impact of his imprisonment on 'The Pilgrim's Progress.' They discuss themes of hope and transformation amid trials faced by the protagonist, connecting these experiences to personal growth. With reflections on Bunyan's enduring legacy, Joyce and Pestell highlight how this classic work continues to inspire modern narratives of self-discovery and resilience.

Leila Aboulela, a celebrated Sudanese novelist known for her lyrical prose, joins Henry to discuss Tayeb Salih's iconic novel, 'Season of Migration to the North.' They explore the intricate themes of cultural duality and identity through the protagonist's journey between Sudan and London. Their conversation touches on the impact of colonial legacies, the evolving role of community in personal acceptance, and the profound influence of Salih on African literature. Notably, they reflect on pivotal locations in London that enhance the narrative's depth.

Acclaimed translator and biographer Richard Zenith shares his insights on the enigmatic Fernando Pessoa’s 'The Book of Disquiet.' Exploring Lisbon’s vibrant literary scene, they delve into Pessoa's complex relationship with writing and identity. Zenith reveals how the author's personal tragedies influenced his fragmented genius. The conversation highlights unforgettable locations tied to Pessoa, meditating on themes of existence and introspection, while emphasizing the importance of becoming a 'good reader' of both literature and life.

Diarmuid Hester, a writer and cultural historian known for his work on sexually dissident literature, joins to explore E.M. Forster's groundbreaking novel 'Maurice.' They delve into Forster's experiences in Cambridge, discussing how the city's culture shaped his views on love and identity. Key themes include the struggles of same-sex love during Forster's time, personal transformations, and the interplay between desire and societal norms. The conversation highlights 'Maurice' as a vital piece of queer history that resonates today.

Joanna Moorhead, a distinguished journalist and biographer known for her work on surrealist artist Leonora Carrington, joins the discussion from the picturesque Ardèche. They dive into Carrington's enchanting yet eco-apocalyptic novel, The Hearing Trumpet, and unravel her complex family dynamics and influence on art. The conversation highlights Carrington's resistance to societal norms while embracing Surrealism, her relationships with partners like Max Ernst, and the rich cultural backdrop of Mexico that shaped her legacy. It's an exploration of creativity, love, and belonging in turbulent times.

Will Self, an acclaimed novelist and essayist known for his memoir 'Will,' joins the conversation to delve into the opium-soaked worlds of Thomas de Quincey and William S. Burroughs. They explore the intertwining themes of pleasure and pain in addiction, address the gothic implications of drug culture, and reflect on how personal struggles shape identity. With a humorous lens, they traverse London's literary landscape, examining the evolution of drug narratives and the socio-political undertones surrounding addiction.

On the Road with Penguin Classics is the literary podcast that takes a stroll around the world's favourite books. In each episode, author Henry Eliot travels to a different literary location to explore a brilliant book in the company of remarkable readers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.