New Books in Literary Studies

Jenny Mann, a Professor of English at NYU, discusses her book on the Orpheus myth and its connections to poetry and science. She unpacks her nonlinear writing process, revealing how it shapes her arguments. The conversation touches on how the Orpheus narrative informs poetic creation, with themes of possession and vulnerability. Mann also explores the relevance of Orphic ideas in contemporary art and shares insights from her teaching, alongside a sneak peek into her future project on Renaissance concepts of infinity.

Andrea Kitta, an Associate Professor of Folklore at East Carolina University, dives into the rich intersection of folklore and public health. She discusses how narratives shape perceptions of disease, critiquing the failure of medical professionals to consider vernacular beliefs. The conversation explores stigmatized origins of 'patient zero,' the cultural implications of vampire and zombie metaphors, and the personal power of storytelling in healthcare. Kitta's insights reveal how folklore can illuminate complex social issues surrounding health and contagion.

James Scorer, a Professor of Latin American Studies at the University of Manchester and author of Latin American Comics in the Twenty-First Century, dives into the vibrant world of Latin American comics. He explores the evolution of this unique art form across various countries, highlighting its role in social and political discourse. Scorer discusses the tension between local and transnational influences, the significance of zine culture, and how comics can serve as powerful tools for memory and activism. His insights into comics and race add another layer to this fascinating conversation.

Jessica Campbell, a literature scholar specializing in Victorian and fairy-tale studies, delves into the rich interplay between the Brontës and fairy tales. She discusses how the Brontës redefined fairy-tale elements to explore themes of gender and identity. Campbell highlights the influences on their works, including Arabian Nights and circulating libraries, and reveals the significance of supernatural imagery in their poetry. She also connects Anne Brontë's novels to classic fairy-tale structures, enhancing their moral critiques. Expect a fresh take on familiar stories!

Aria Fani, an associate professor and director of Persian and Iranian Studies at the University of Washington, dives into how Afghans and Iranians developed their national identities through literature. He discusses the evolution of 'literature' in Persian and the crucial role of literary associations and periodicals in this transformation. Fani also tackles the complexities of linguistic nationalism, the impact of exclusionary canon-building, and the ethical dimensions of literature in contemporary contexts, particularly regarding Afghan displacement.

Cosima Clara Gillhammer is a medieval literature and liturgy scholar from the University of Oxford, and her book provides a fascinating look at the profound impact of Christian liturgy on Western culture. She discusses how liturgy shapes art, music, and literature while maintaining emotional dynamism despite its historical roots. Gillhammer reveals how rituals engage all senses, the importance of Psalm 51, and even the connections between liturgy and modern creators like Arvo Pärt. The conversation highlights liturgy's role in shaping belief and its ongoing relevance today.

In this intriguing discussion, John Blair, a medieval historian and author of "Killing the Dead," delves into the eerie world of vampire epidemics, exploring how beliefs in dangerous corpses have spanned from ancient Mesopotamia to modern-day Haiti. He explains the psychological triggers behind these terrifying phenomena, linking them to societal crises and gender dynamics. The conversation also uncovers how historical vampire imagery evolved and how contemporary tales continue to thrive, revealing our enduring fascination with the undead.

Glenn Patterson, a Northern Irish novelist and director of the Seamus Heaney Centre, teams up with sociologist David Cunningham to explore the complexities of identity and conflict in Belfast. They dive into how the word 'community' is often misappropriated, revealing its impact on societal interactions. Patterson shares insights on the dangers of ‘softening’ peace walls and the consequences of visual policing through murals. They also discuss the haunting notion of 'unseeing' others in divided cities, drawing parallels with global urban segregation.

Theresa Muñoz, a poet and scholar with a focus on archives and memory, dives into her upcoming collection, Archivum. She discusses the significance of Muriel Spark's papers and how they influenced her poetry. Themes of memory, migration, and interracial histories resonate throughout her work. Muñoz explores the emotional depth found in archives, revealing how everyday objects, like a jam recipe, can inspire profound reflections on belonging and loss. Expect a thoughtful journey through Edinburgh’s landmarks intertwined with personal storytelling.

Tim Beasley-Murray, Associate Professor at University College London, dives into the interplay of playfulness and seriousness in academia and literature. He argues that these elements are not contradictory but intertwined, affecting our understanding of politics and contemporary life. Delving into the works of Emmanuel Carrère, Tim examines literature's ethical responsibilities, particularly in autofiction. He discusses the ludic nature of academia and how impacts can ripple through reality, showcasing a unique blend of creative and critical thought.