Shows
Close ReadsAs I Lay Dying: Episode 2Join David, Heidi, and Tim as they dig ever deeper into Faulkner's novel. Topics of conversation include mothers who are fish, mothers who are horses, buzzards, and Heidi's great delight in this book. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2022-02-111h 15Close ReadsA Confederacy of Dunces: To the End!Once more we've come to the end of another book's road. So join David, Tim, and Heidi as they unpack the wild and wacky and strange ending of A Confederacy of Dunces. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2021-12-181h 03Close ReadsA Gathering of Old Men: 110-167This week David, Tim, and Heidi discuss which characters are most villainous in Ernest Gaines' novel, and dig in to the narrative and dramatic effect of leaving the gathering of old men right in the middle of the story. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2021-10-2953 minClose ReadsDeath Comes for the Archbishop: Books 2 + 3In which the hero gets attacked by an evil man called Scales, a priest gets thrown off a cliff, and the writing is still painfully lovely. Join David, Tim, and Heidi as they dive deepening into Willa Cather's classic novel (with a little digression into some history). See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2021-01-151h 22Close ReadsThe Sun Also Rises: The Final ChaptersThis week David, Heidi, and Tim discuss the final chapters of Hemingway's novel. They chat about whether the book is fundamentally hopeless, whether Hemingway was a nihilist, church scenes vs bull fights, Jake's injury as a red herring, and much more. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-08-271h 32Close ReadsThe Sun Also Rises: Chapters 13-16This week David, Heidi, and Tim discuss bull fighters, boxers. Brett Ashley, bad relationships, and barrels of vino. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-08-191h 16Close ReadsThe Sun Also Rises: Chapters 8-12This week David, Heidi, and Tim dive into the middle of Hemingway's novel. Topics of discussion include the strange organization of the book, Hemingway's subversion of traditional tropes, the famous church scene, and fishing in Spain. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-08-121h 12Close ReadsThe Sun Also Rises: Book IWelcome to a new series of episodes on Ernest Hemingway's classic novel, The Sun Also Rises! In this episode David, Heidi, and Tim discuss Hemingway's famous style and his unique talent for capturing human experience. Plus, they discuss some key passages, the book's context in twentieth century lit, and the troubles that are haunting these memorable characters. Don't forget to rate and review! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-08-051h 28
CiRCE Institute Podcast NetworkFORMA: Talking about the new "30 Poems to Memorize" book In this episode David Kern joins Heidi White to discuss a new CiRCE publication, 30 Poems to Memorize (Before Its Too Late), which David edited. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2020-08-0346 minClose ReadsFrankenstein: Q&A EpisodeIn this final episode of our series on Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, David, Heidi, Karen, and Joshua answer your questions. There's no point in trying to summarize everything this episode covers. You'll just have to listen. *insert shrug emoji.*Remember to rate and review if you like this episode! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-07-291h 39Close ReadsFrankenstein: The Final ChaptersIn this episode, David, Heidi, and special guests Karen Swallow Prior and Joshua Gibbs discuss the final pages of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. Topics of conversation include whether justice was served in the story, whether the ending is satisfying, the eery similarities between Shelley's life and the book's ending, and much more!Remember to rate and review the show if you enjoyed this episode! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-07-221h 17Close ReadsFrankenstein: Volume III: Chapters 1-4David, Heidi, Karen, and Joshua are back with more discussion of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. In this episode they discuss Frankenstein's relationship with his father, whether the monster had to turn out evil, whether Frankenstein did the noble thing in not creating the "bride," and much, much more. If you like this episode be sure to rate and review wherever you get podcasts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-07-151h 06Close ReadsFrankenstein: Volume II: Chapters 6-9Once again David and Heidi are joined by Karen Swallow Prior and Joshua Gibbs as they discuss questions of virtue in Mary Shelley's classic novel, the monster's self-education, neo-classicism vs romanticism, the place of Paradise Lost in the story, and the differences between this narrative and the Adam and Eve story in Genesis. Remember, if you like this episode, it goes a long way when you rate and review wherever you get podcasts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-07-091h 29Close ReadsFrankenstein: Volume II, chapters 1-5This week David, Heidi, Karen, and Josh discuss the monster's ability to speak so eloquently and his unique form of self-education (and a bunch of other stuff, of course). If you like this episode please do rate and review wherever you get your podcasts. Don't forget you can join the conversation at closereads.substack.com or @closereadspodcasts on Instagram. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-07-021h 26Close ReadsFrankenstein: Chapters III-VIIDavid and Heidi are back with very special guests Karen Swallow Prior and Joshua Gibbs with more discussion of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein.They discuss the degree to which we ought to be consumed by the unreliable narrator as readers, whether Victor Frankenstein is a scoundrel, some differences between the 1831 and 1818 editions, Victor's unnatural interest in science, and much more.If you like this episode please be sure to rate and review where you get podcasts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-06-251h 18Close ReadsFrankenstein: Letter I - Chapter IIAnd we are on to a new book! Join David, Heidi, and very special guests Karen Swallow Prior, author of On Reading Well, and Joshua Gibbs, host of Proverbial, for a discussion about Mary Shelley's legendary novel, Frankenstein. In this episode they chat about the story behind the book, Shelley's wild and sad life, the differences in the editions, some preliminary themes, and more. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-06-171h 23Close ReadsThe End of the Affair: Final ChaptersTim is back and he joins David and Heidi for a conversation about the final pages of Graham Green's novel, The End of the Affair. They discuss Henry's invitation to Maurice, the book's approach to the concept of salvation, whether the ending is believable, and much more. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-06-0459 minClose ReadsThe End of the Affair: Book 4-Book 5.3Time flies when you're having fun (is not the lesson of this book). We are plowing our way through The End of the Affair and the end of the book is near. This week Tim is away (at sea, we think), so Heidi and David chatted about Sarah's death, Henry's invitation to Maurice, Maurice's hatred of God, and the way the book's writing shifts a bit during this section. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-05-271h 06Close ReadsThe End of the Affair: Book ThreeOn this week's episode, David, Heidi, and Tim chat about the challenges that this section of the book presents for discussion, as well as the deeply profound reflections found in Sarah's letters to God. Plus, there's some chatter about the different ways each of them read and approach books like this. You know, the normal stuff. Remember to rate and review wherever you get podcasts! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-05-201h 21Close ReadsThe End of the Affair: Book 2In this week's episode, David, Heidi, and Tim discuss the likability (or lack thereof) of Maurice Bendrix, the protagonist of The End of the Affair; the way the book demands empathy from its reader; Green's consideration of sex, lust, and sin; and much more, of course. Remember to rate and review wherever you get podcasts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-05-131h 19Close ReadsThe End of the Affair: Part OneAnd so it was time to begin a new book . . . Join David, Tim, and Heidi as they dive into the world of Graham Green's twentieth classic, The End of the Affair. They chat about the likability of the narrator, the mystery of Sarah Miles, the technical skill of the author, and the fascination of those first few lines. And much more, of course. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-05-071h 18Close ReadsAnne of Green Gables: Final ChaptersAnd so we come to the end of yet another book. In this episode, David, Heidi, and Tim discuss Matthew's death, Gilbert's action, Anne's growth, Marilla's illness, Lucy Maude Montgomery's skill, and a bunch of other stuff (including cereal, Yeoman's work, Michael Jordan, and Avocado toast). Remember to rate and review wherever you're listening! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-04-231h 16Close ReadsAnne of Green Gables: Chapters 28-32In this episode David, Tim, and Heidi, chat about the melancholy that sets into the book during this section, Anne's increasing maturity, the "boat springs a leak" scene, the "lessons" and morals Anne has learned, and much more. Remember to rate and review wherever you get podcasts! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-04-151h 05Close ReadsAnne of Green Gables: Chapters 22-27In this episode David, Heidi, and Tim chat about the goodness of Anne's imagination, whether it ever serves negative purposes, and a whole bunch of about kinds of reading. Also other stuff. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-04-081h 17Close ReadsAnne of Green Gables: Chapters 17-21Join David, Heidi, and Tim as they discuss Anne's continued adventures with Diana, the way the book changes structurally during these chapters, and Lucy Maud Montgomery's view of Anne's imagination. If you like this episode please be sure to rate and review wherever you access podcasts! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-04-011h 06Close ReadsAnne of Green Gables: Chapters 13-16Self-isolate along with David, Heidi, and Tim as they chat some more about that delightful Anne with an "E." This week they discuss the introduction of Gilbert Blythe and the famous "carrots scene, Anne's particular brand of drama, the unique stakes of the novel, and much more. And remember: if you like this episode you can rate and review wherever you get podcasts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-03-261h 09Close ReadsAnne of Green Gables: Chapters 7-12Chatting from their Covid-19-related self-isolation, David, Heidi, and Tim discuss the unique nature of Anne of Green Gables, the delightfulness of Anne, Anne's relationship with Marilla, the similarities between Anne and Rachel Lynde, and much more. If you like this episode, please be sure to rate and review wherever you get podcasts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-03-191h 06Close ReadsAnne of Green Gables: Chapters 1-6It's time to make friends with Anne with an E. In this episode, Heidi explains why this book changed her life (she's read it soooo many times), David explains why Matthew and Anne's relationship is meaningful, and Tim dives into a story that's new to him. Remember to spread the word by rating and reviewing wherever you listen to podcasts! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-03-121h 09Close ReadsThe Catcher in the Rye: Q&A EpisodeIt's that time again: let's answer YOUR questions. Join David, Tim, and Heidi as they contemplate topics like Salinger geeks, Holden's affection for the nuns, the ugly vandalism at Phoebe's school, Holden Caulfield on screen, DB's role, and much more. And remember to rate and review wherever you get podcasts! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-03-051h 33Close ReadsThe Catcher in the Rye: Final ChaptersOnce again we've come to the end of a book, so join David, Heidi, and Tim as they discuss whether Holden Caulfield is a cynic at the end of the book, the creepy scene with Mr. Antolini, the hopeful denouement, and the complicated nature of the book's legacy. If you like this episode please help us spread the word by rating and reviewing it wherever you get podcasts! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-02-281h 24Close ReadsThe Catcher in the Rye: Chapters 10-17Back again the gang is. This week David, Heidi, and Tim chatted about Holden's diction and choice of words, the red hunting hat, the ducks on the lagoon, and much more.Remember to rate and review! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-02-201h 11Close ReadsThe Catcher in the Rye: Chapters 1-9And just like that we're on to J.D. Salinger's controversial novel, The Catcher in the Rye. Join David, Heidi, and Tim as they discuss why this book is so loved and yet so hated and why it's taught so often. Plus, they discuss the foul language problem, Holden's cynicism, whether they would let their kids be Holden's friend, and much more. Remember, if you like this you can rate and review it and spread the word. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-02-121h 21Close ReadsPeace Like a River: The Final ChaptersHere we are at the end of Leif Enger's Peace Like a River. In this episode David, Heidi, and Tim discuss the denouement (and overall structure) of the story, Rueben's fate, Davy's choice to leave (again), and much more. If you like this episode, be sure to rate and review wherever you listen to podcasts! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-01-291h 09Close ReadsPeace Like a River: Penultimate EpisodeWe're back with more conversation about Leif Enger's Peace Like a River. In this episode David, Heidi, and Tim discuss the nefarious Jape Waltzer, Andreeson's changing role, the story's budding romance, and much, much more. It's a long one, so buckle up. Remember: rate, review wherever you get podcasts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-01-231h 26Close ReadsPeace Like a River: Chapters 8-11We're back with more conversation about Leif Enger's Peace Like a River! In this episode, David, Heidi, and Tim discuss the Fairy Tale elements of the story, the question of realism, what the story is ultimately about, Swede's preciousness, and much more. Remember to rate and review wherever you listen! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-01-081h 22Close ReadsPeace Like a River: Chapters 5-7Welcome back! Join David, Heidi, and Tim as they dive deeper into Leif Enger's Peace Like a River. They talk about whether Davy's actions were justified and how the novel treats them, the lack of a mother-figure in the story, and much more. And remember: when you rate and review it helps out a lot! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-01-041h 24Close ReadsPeace like a River: Chapters 1-4And we're on to another book! Join David, Heidi, and Tim as they dive into a new book, Leif Enger's novel, Peace Like a River. In this episode they chat about the first 50 pages (aka: the first four chapters). Remember: when you rate and review the show you help spread the word! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-12-251h 18Close ReadsOur Year in Fiction ReadingIt's time for one of our favorite annual traditions . . . Join David, Heidi, Sarah-Jane, and Tim as they share some of their favorite fiction reads of 2019 (check out the Patreon page for our non-fiction choices!). And remember to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you get podcasts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-12-201h 16Close ReadsA River Runs through It Q&AIt's time to answer listener questions about Norman Maclean's A River Runs through It. David, Heidi, and Tim give their best effort at answering a slew of really tough, thoughtful questions. Bravo to everyone who contributed! Remember: if you like this show, it goes a long way when you rate and review it wherever you get podcasts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-12-191h 12Close ReadsA River Runs through It (episode 2)Join David, Heidi, and Tim as they chat about the second half of Norman Maclean's beloved novella, A River Runs through It. They chat about whether the story is a tragedy, the way the end recalls the beginning, the theme of union in the story, and the way it explores the complicated nature of human relationship (and much more, of course). Remember: if you like this show you can help out by rating and reviewing it wherever you get podcasts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-12-121h 07Close ReadsA River Runs through It (episode 1)And we're off. It's time for Norman Maclean's A River Runs through It. On this episode, David, Heidi, and Tim discuss roughly the first half of the story. They chat about the central metaphors in the book, Maclean's craftsmanship as a prose writer, the subtly of the characterizations, the relationship between the brothers, and much more. Remember, if you like this show, your ratings and reviews (wherever you get podcasts), go a long way in helping the show longterm. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-12-041h 22Close ReadsBonus Episode: Hemingway's "A Clean Well-lighted Room"Unfortunately we had a scheduling snafu with recording for this week, so we are sharing a bonus episode that we sent to our Patrons a few months back. It's a conversation between David, Tim, and Heidi about Hemingway's famous story, "A Clean Well-lighted Place." Conversation touched on the difficulty with Hemingway and his particular craftsmanship in this short story. Thanks for your patience! The regular show will be back soon. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-10-151h 17Close ReadsThe Odyssey: Q&A EpisodeIt's time for listener questions! In this episode, David, Tim, and Heidi answer your questions about topics like why Athena is gray-eyed, other great translations, whether Odysseus broke the hospitality code when visiting the cyclops, what first-time readers should glean from this epic poem, and much, much more. Remember: when you rate and review the show you help us spread the word! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-10-071h 13Close ReadsThe Odyssey: Final BooksJoin David, Tim, and Heidi as they arrive at the end of the Odyssey. Conversation touches on Telemachus' evolution, the way the various themes come together, the stories behind stories, modes of reading, and much more. Don't forget to send in your questions for next episode! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-09-281h 16Close ReadsThe Odyssey: XXI-XXIIIt's time to discuss the battle and the bloodshed. In this episode, David, Heidi, and Tim chat about whether Odysseus is after justice or revenge (and all the ramifications of that question) . . . and much more, of course. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-09-231h 20Close ReadsThe Odyssey: XIX-XXAnd we're back with more conversation about Homer's famous epic poem. This week, David, Heidi, and Tim discuss Penelope's evolving character, the way the poet is comparing Odysseus and Penelope in the text, the building tension, and much more. Remember: if you like this show you can help spread the word by rating and reviewing it. And don't forget you can support the show and get some great show swag on Patron: Patreon.com/closereads. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-09-171h 06Close ReadsThe Odyssey: XVII-XVIIIThe saga continues. On this week's episode, David, Heidi, and a very special guest discuss books XVII and XVIII of the Odyssey. Conversation touches on the patience of Odysseus and Telemachus, Athena's role in the story, whether the suitors are worthy adversaries, and Penelope's beauty. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-09-091h 13Close ReadsThe Odyssey: XII-XVIAnd we're back with more discussion of Homer's Odyssey! David, Heidi, and Tim explore the fascinating character of Eumaeus the swineherd; Poseidon, the anti-xenia god; the Western-y nature of the second of half of the poem; and much more. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-09-0258 minClose ReadsThe Odyssey: XI-XIIJoin David, Heidi, and Tim as they continue their journey with Odysseus. In this episode they discuss books XI and XII, focusing on Odysseus' virtues, the allegorical aspects of the poem, the popularity of the story of the sirens, and much more. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-08-241h 15Close ReadsThe Odyssey: Books IX-XIt's time for books IX and X of Homer's Odyssey! Join David, Heidi, and Tim for a discussion about the cyclopes, Circe, and the degree to which Odysseus is truly virtuous. And, remember, it helps the show out a whole lot when you leave reviews on whatever app you use to listen to podcasts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-08-181h 10Close ReadsThe Odyssey: Books V-VIIIDavid, Heidi, and Tim are back with more conversation about The Odyssey. They discuss the question of Odysseus' faithfulness, they compare Nausikaa and Calypso, and they discuss the role of this section in the grand scheme of the poem. Remember: if you like this series on the Odyssey we could use your help. Rate and review the show to spread the word! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-08-121h 01Close ReadsThe Odyssey: Books III-IVJoin David, Heidi, and Tim for more conversation about Homer's classic epic poem. in this episode they chat about the role of the gods in the story, the complicated nature of ancient Greek paganism, whether the characters in the book have "faith," and much, much more. Remember: if you love this show, please subscribe, rate, and review it. It goes a long way . See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-08-031h 18Close ReadsThe Odyssey: Books 1-2It's time for a new book! Join David, Heidi, and Tim as they dive into Homer's Odyssey, books one and two. Discussion touches on the purpose of these early books, Telemachus' journey, the relationship between the gods and humans, Penelope's wisdom, and much more. Remember: if you like this show it really goes a long way when you leave starred or written reviews wherever you listen to your podcasts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-07-251h 17Close ReadsSense and Sensibility Q&A EpisodeJoin David, Heidi, and Karen Swallow Prior as they answer your questions about Jane Austen's novel. And if you like this episode be sure to leave a review. Those 5-star reviews go a long way. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-07-171h 03Close ReadsSense & Sensibility: The Final ChaptersJoin David, Heidi, and special guest Karen Swallow Prior as they discuss the final chapters of Sense and Sensibility. Conversation touches on whether Edward deserved Elinor, Marianne's evolution, Elinor's most of catharsis, and the reversal of the book's beginning. Remember: subscribe, rate, review! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-07-0956 minClose ReadsSense & Sensibility: Volume 3, chapters 1-8Join David, Heidi, and special guest Karen Swallow Prior for a conversation about Marianne's growth, Willougby's villainy, Edward's issues, and the balance of satire and pathos in a book like this. Remember: subscribe, rate, review! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-07-021h 12Close ReadsSense & Sensibility: Volume 2, chapters 8-14Join David, Heidi, and very special guest, Karen Swallow Prior, as they chat about volume 2 of Jane Austen's classic novel. Conversation focuses on which character most bears the essence of the novel, whether there are any ideal types in the book, and the characterization that makes Austen so important (and amazing). Remember: Subscribe, rate, review! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-06-251h 05Close ReadsSense & Sensibility: Volume 2, chapters 1-7David, Heidi, and special guest, Karen Swallow Prior are back with more conversation about Jane Austen's Sense & Sensibility. Conversation touches on the differences between Elinor and Marianne, the similarities in their situations and responses, Edward and Willougby, and much more. Remember: subscribe, RATE, review! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-06-181h 11Close ReadsSense & Sensibility: Volume I, chapters 16-22This week, David, Heidi, and special guest, Karen Swallow Prior, dive ever-deeper into the world of Jane Austen's classic first novel. Discussion touches on the languid pacing of this middle section, the question of stakes, the various binaries Austen asks us to consider, and much more. Remember: Subscribe, rate, review! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-06-1054 minClose ReadsSense & Sensibility: Vol. I, chapters 9-15Further up and further (as they say)! Join David, Heidi, and special guest Karen Swallow Prior (author of the much-loved book, On Reading Well) as they continue their discussion of Jane Austen's classic novel. Topics of conversation include: How the irony and satire in the book ought to be read for each character, how Jane Austen portrays her male characters, the question of making judgments as readers, and much, much more. Remember: subscribe, rate, review! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-06-031h 03Close ReadsSense and Sensibility: Vol. 1, chapters 1-8Join David, Heidi, and special guest, Karen Swallow Prior (author of the much-loved book, On Reading Well) for this new series of shows about Jane Austen's classic novel. In this episode they discuss Austen's use of irony and satire, her genius point-of-view techniques, the purpose of a comedy of manners, and much, much more. Remember: If you like this show please subscribe, rate, and review! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-05-271h 04Close ReadsLittle Britches: Q&A EpisodeIt's question and answer time! Join David, Adam, and Heidi as they answer your questions about Little Britches. Remember: Subscribe, rate, review! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-05-181h 02Close ReadsLittle Britches: The Final ChaptersIt's time for the final chapters of Ralph Moody's Little Britches! In this episode, David, Heidi, and Adam discuss the denouement of Ralph's journey to manhood (and cowboyhood), the relationship between Ralph and his mother, the poignent moment in the finale, and much more! Remember: subscribe, rate, review! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-05-141h 11Close ReadsLittle Britches: Chapters 22-26Welcome back! In this episode, David, Heidi, and Adam discuss the culmination of Ralph's story arc, parenting lessons from Little Britches, the important role of the horse/boy relationship in this book, the Cowboy dream, and much more. Remember: Subscribe, rate, review! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-05-0658 minClose ReadsLittle Britches: Chapters 17-21Welcome back! In this episode David Kern, Adam Andrews, and Heidi White discuss Ralph Moody's stated intentions for this book, what we as readers (and parents/teachers) ought to do with those intentions, and how those intentions impact the book's literary place. Plus some other stuff, of course. Remember: Subscribe, rate, review! If you like Close Reads please be sure to give it the ol' 5-star review in whatever app you're using. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-05-0254 minClose ReadsLittle Britches: Chapters 11-16David, Heidi, and Adam are back with further discussion about Ralph Moody's Little Britches. Conversation touches on the dangers of romanticizing or idealizing the past, the difficulty of parenting, the key moment in Ralph's journey to get Two Dog, and the ongoing saga of the water rights. Remember: Subscribe, rate, review! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-04-221h 24Close ReadsLittle Britches: Chapters 1-6And we're back to kick off a new series, with Ralph Moody's Little Britches! Joining David and Heidi is Adam Andrews, from the Center for Lit. Conversation touches on the comparison between Little Britches and Little House on the Prairie, what Homer and Plato have to do with this story, Western stories in American lit, Moody's portrayal of his parents, and much more. Remember: subscribe, rate, review! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-04-081h 18Close ReadsThe Spy Who Came in from the Cold: Q&A EpisodeJoin David, Heidi, and Tim for an in-depth time of answering listener questions! They talk heroism, other spy novels, the ambiguity of the ending, and much, much, much more. Remember: subscribe, rate, review!, See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-03-241h 24Close ReadsThe Spy Who Came in from the Cold: ConclusionJoin David, Heidi, and Tim as they discuss the final chapters of John LeCarre's The Spy Who Came in from the Cold. Conversation explores the novel's payoff, Liz and Leamas' relationship, good guys and bad guys, the complicated philosophies embedded in the book, and much more.Remember: subscribe, rate, review. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-03-171h 12Close ReadsThe Spy Who Came in from the Cold: Chapters 13-20Welcome back! This week David, Heidi, and Tim are chatting about chapters 13-20 of The Spy Who Came in from the Cold, with an especially deep dive into chapter 13, which is the thematic and dramatic core of the story. Watch out for the moment when Tim drops a fantastic new metaphor. Plus they offer a grateful farewell to a longtime contributor to the show.Remember: subscribe, rate, review! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-03-091h 07Close ReadsThe Spy Who Came in from the Cold: Chapters 7-12Welcome back! In this episode David, Heidi, and Tim discuss John LeCarre's classic spy novel some more, with a particular focus on the value of genre fiction in contemporary times, the concept of anti-heros, LeCarre's subtly, and much more, This episode is brought to you by New College Franklin! Learn more at newcollegefranklin.org. And remember: help us spread the word! Subscribe, rate, review! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-03-031h 03Close ReadsThe Remains of the Day: ConlusionIn which David, Heidi, and Tim discuss the ending to Kazuo Ishiguro's The Remains of the Day. They discuss the heartbreaking nature of the book, what to make of Steven's final conversation with Mrs. Benn, whether he changed in the end, and much more. This episode is presented by New College Franklin. Learn more at newcollegefranklin.org. And remember: subscribe, rate, review! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-02-091h 12Close ReadsRemains of the Day: Day 3 EveningWelcome back. In this episode David, Heidi, and Tim continue their discussion of Kazuo Ishiguro's novel, Remains of the Day. Conversation some of the unique ways the novel's structure changes in this section, whether Stevens is a good butler, whether he has changed at all, the confessional nature of this chapter, and much more. This episode is brought to you by New College Franklin. Check them out at newcollegefranklin.org. Remember: subscribe, rate, review. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-02-021h 28Close ReadsRemains of the Day: Day 2, MorningWelcome back to Close Reads. In this episode David, Heidi, and Tim continue their discussion of Kazuo Ishiguro's Remains of the Day. Conversation explores the way Stevens' various personal relationships mirror the international politics in the story, Ishiguro's gift for subtext, the history of the age in which the story takes place, the ongoing theme of "professionalism", the American's place in the story, and much more. Help us spread the word: subscribe, rate, review! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-01-191h 17Close ReadsThe Remains of the Day, Prologue and Day 1Join David, Heidi, and Tim as they kick off discussion of a new book: Kazuo Ishiguro's The Remains of the Day. Topics of conversation include the expectations of a road novel, the book's treatment of dignity, why professionalism is so important to Stevens, the questions of culture the book raises, key scenes, and more. Don't forget: Subscribe, rate, review.And if you like this show please supporting it on Patreon. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2019-01-121h 13Close ReadsThe Power and the Glory Q&A Join Heidi, Tim, and David as they answer listener questions about Graham Green's The Power and the Glory. Remember: subscribe, rate, review!Support us on Patreon! To learn more about the Close Reads Podcast Network please click here. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2018-11-161h 19Close ReadsThe Power and the Glory: Final ChaptersJoin David, Tim, and Heidi as they discuss the final chapters of Graham Greene's The Power and the Glory, focusing on whether the priest is a hero and the lieutenant is a villain, characters who have conversions, the saintly characteristics of the whiskey priest, the chiastic structure of the novel, and much more. If you like this show please remember to subscribe, rate, and review!Support us on Patreon! To learn more about the Close Reads Podcast Network please click here. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2018-11-101h 37Close ReadsThe Power and the Glory: Part 2, Chapter 3 - Part 3, Chapter 1Welcome back to Close Reads, where David, Heidi, and Tim are discussing Graham Greene's The Power and the Glory. Conversation in this episode centers primarily on the image of the dying dog - including a long discussion of the nature of images and symbols in literature (how to approach them, in what ways they matter, the difference between an image and a symbol, and more).If you like this show please remember to subscribe, rate, and review!Support us on Patreon! To learn more about the Close Reads Podcast Network please click here. 2018-11-031h 16Close ReadsThe Power and the Glory: Part 2, Chapters 2-3Welcome back to Close Reads, where David, Heidi, and Tim are discussing Graham Greene's The Power and the Glory. Topics of conversation on this episode include Graham Greene's opinion that these were the greatest pages he ever wrote, the pace of these chapters, the contrast between the two chapters. the whiskey priests' transformation, the lieutenant's inability to recognize the priest, the whiskey priest vs Padre Jose, and much more. If you like this show please remember to subscribe, rate, and review!Support us on Patreon! To learn more about the Close Reads Podcast Ne...2018-10-271h 18Close ReadsThe Power and the Glory: Part 2, Chapter 1Welcome back to Close Reads, where David, Heidi, and Tim are discussing Graham Greene's The Power and the Glory. Topics of conversation on this episode include whether the whiskey priest is noble, the various character doubles in the book, the theme of faithfulness in this section, the idea of judgment, and the concept of plausibility structures in making a revolution happen. Typical Close Reads. If you like this show please remember to subscribe, rate, and review!Support us on Patreon! To learn more about the Close Reads Podcast Network please click here. ...2018-10-191h 24Close ReadsThe Power and the Glory: Part 1, Chapters 3-4Welcome back to Close Reads, where David, Heidi, and Tim are discussing Graham Greene's The Power and the Glory. Topics of conversation include Coral Fellow's entrance into adulthood and corresponding conversion (?), the faith of the stranger priest, Padre Jose's despair, little Luis' abandonment, and more. If you like this show please remember to subscribe, rate, and review!Support us on Patreon! To learn more about the Close Reads Podcast Network please click here. ***This episode is brought to you by the honors program at Belmont Abbey College. ...2018-10-121h 15Close ReadsThe Power and the Glory: Part 1, Chapters 1-2Welcome back to Close Reads, where David, Heidi, and Tim are kicking off a discussion of Graham Greene's The Power and the Glory. Topics of conversation include Green's deft use of subtext, the setting as character, the sadness/hopefullness of the novel, and much more. If you like this show please remember to subscribe, rate, and review!To learn more about the Close Reads Podcast Network please click here. Support us on Patreon See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2018-10-061h 21Close ReadsCrossing to Safety Q&A In this episode David, Angelina, and Heidi answer listener questions about Wallace Stegner's Crossing to Safety. Topics of conversation include the stuttering son-in-law, Larry's choice to tell this story, the role Charity's death played in the various characters crossing to safety, the Frost poem in the epigraph, and much more. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2018-09-281h 21Close ReadsCrossing to Safety: Part 3Welcome back to Close Reads. In this episode, David, Angelina, Heidi, and Graeme chat about the final chapter of Wallace Stegner's Crossing to Safety. Discussion touches on the conflict between the Mogan's and Lang, what makes the ending moving, whether the ending was unexpected, the loveliness of the final two lines, the book's ambiguity, and much more (plus, Graeme tells a story about Halloween candy, in a call back to an old episode). See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2018-09-221h 20Close ReadsCrossing to Safety: Part 2, Chapters 4-5Welcome back to Close Reads. In this week's episode David, Angelina, and Heidi continue their discussion of Wallace Stegner's Crossing to Safety. Conversations touches on the theme of ambition in the book (and in life), Larry's ongoing contemplation of "going somewhere," Sally's wise view of the world even in the midst of her suffering, and much more. Don't forget: If you like this show subscribe, rate, review! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2018-09-151h 31Close ReadsCrossing to Safety: Part 2, Chapters 1-3Join David, Heidi, and Angelina as they continue their conversation about Wallace Stegner's novel, Crossing to Safety. Topics of conversation include the difference between a personal and transcendent experience with art, the bottomlessness of Great Books and Good Books, a comparison between the first chapter of part one and the first chapter of part two, and much, much more. If you like this podcast make sure you've subscribed, rated, and reviewed. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2018-09-081h 25Close ReadsCrossing to Safety, Chapters 11-13Join David, Heidi, and Angelina, as they continue their conversation about Stegner's modern classic, Crossing to Safety. Topics include the strange mystery of reading, the similarities between Charity and Larry, Stegner's playful approach to subverting archetypes, and much more. Click here to sign up for the Close Reads email newsletter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2018-08-311h 24Close ReadsCrossing to Safety, Chapters 7-10Join David, Heidi, and Angelina, as they continue their conversation about Stegner's modern classic, Crossing to Safety. Topics include Sally's characterization, the likability of the various characters, Charity's overbearing nature and Sid's vows to her, the archetypes in the boat scene, and much, much more. Click here to sign up for the Close Reads email newsletter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2018-08-251h 35Close ReadsCrossing to Safety, Chapters 5-6Join David, Heidi, and Angelina, as they continue their conversation about Stegner's modern classic, Crossing to Safety. Topics include the kind of emotional responses this book elicits, what we mean when we say a book "feels well-crafted," the way Stegner plays with memory in the first person voice of the narrator, how much we should "believe" Larry's recollections, and much more.Click here to sign up for the Close Reads email newsletter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2018-08-171h 23Close ReadsCrossing to Safety, Chapters 1-4It's Wallace Stegner time! Join David, Heidi, Angelina, and Stegner aficionado, Graeme Pitman, as they kick off a conversation about Stegner's modern classic, Crossing to Safety. Topics include Stegner's poetic prose and unique metaphors, the way the story introduces and explores characters, Stegner's literary impact, and much more. Click here to sign up for the Close Reads email newsletter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2018-08-111h 25Close ReadsA Rose for EmilyJoin David Kern, Heidi White, and guest Jonathan Rogers for an exploration of William Faulkner's short story, "A Rose for Emily." Discussion touches on the pedagogy of teaching literature, Faulkner's customary obtuseness, the purity of the narrative of this story, what it says about Southern culture, and much, much more. Click here to sign up for the Close Reads email newsletter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2018-07-291h 29Close ReadsA Jury of Her PeersJoin David Kern, Angelina Stanford, and Heidi White, for an exploration of Susan Glaspell's short story, "A Jury of Her Peers." Topics include the possible feminist ideas in the story, the question (or non-question) of justice, how the men in the story should be read, the private vs public lives of the women in the story, and much more. Click here to sign up for the Close Reads email newsletter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2018-07-241h 02Close ReadsDesiree's BabyJoin David Kern, Angelina Stanford, and Heidi White, for an exploration of Kate Chopin's short story, Desiree's Baby. Topics include the story's fairy tale nature, the way it touches on matters of race and gender, its structural genius, and much, much, much more. Click here to sign up for the Close Reads email newsletter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2018-07-141h 13Close ReadsRip Van WinkleJoin David Kern, Heidi White, and very special guest Jonathan Rogers (author of The Wilderking Trilogy and The Terrible Speed of Mercy: A Spiritual Biography of Flannery O'Connor, among other books), for a deep-dive into Washington Irving's famous short story, "Rip Van Winkle." Topics include the place of this story in the American literary tradition, Irving's craftsmanship, the conceit/framing device Irving employs, and a whole lot more. This episode is brought to you by Augustine College in the US. Click here to sign up for the Close Reads email newsletter.2018-07-011h 14Close ReadsThe Glass Menagerie Q&A Join David, Tim, and Heidi for some more lively discussion as they conclude their conversation about Tennessee Williams' award-winning and much-beloved play, The Glass Menagerie. Topics of conversation include the glass unicorn, the value of tragedies, the challenges of reading a play (vs. seeing it performed), and much, much more. Plus, David explains some exciting new changes for the Close Reads brand - and the short story the show will cover next week. This episode is brought to you by Augustine College in the US. Click here to sign up for the Close Re...2018-06-231h 16Close ReadsThe Glass MenagerieJoin David, Tim, and Heidi (Angelina is away for work) for a lively discussion about Tennessee Williams' award-winning and much-beloved play, The Glass Menagerie. Topics of conversation include the differences (and unique challenges) between play writing and novel writing, who plays are written for, how to read plays, why this play has been so popular for so long, Williams' creative genius, and much, much more. This episode is brought to you by Augustine College in the US. Click here to sign up for the Close Reads email newsletter. See acast...2018-06-161h 23Close ReadsHannah Coulter Q&AJoin David, Tim, Angelina, and Heidi as they conclude their conversation about Wendell Berry's novel, Hannah Coulter, by answering listener questions. Topics include the Okinawa chapter, whether Berry is preachy, whether his work will be remembered in a few hundred years, and much more. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2018-06-101h 07Close ReadsHannah Coulter: ConclusionJoin David, Tim, Angelina, and special guest Heidi White as they continue their discussion of Wendell Berry's 2003 novel, Hannah Coulter. They discuss the ways this book impacts each of them, the character of Hannah, why men love this book, and much, much more. If you enjoy this show, please support it on Patreon. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2018-06-011h 12Close ReadsHannah Coulter, Chapters 8-15Join David, Tim, Angelina, and special guest Heidi White as they continue their discussion of Wendell Berry's 2003 novel, Hannah Coulter. Conversation touches on Berry's emphasis on the values of rural life, whether Berry's ideals can be applied anywhere, Nathan Coulter and Burley Coulter as embodiment of those ideals, and much more. If you enjoy this show, please support it on Patreon. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2018-05-251h 24Close ReadsHannah Coulter, Part 1Join David, Tim, Angelina, and special guest Heidi White as they begin their discussion of Wendell Berry's 2003 novel, Hannah Coulter. Conversation touches on first impressions, the book's epitaph, Hannah's unique voice, the poetic rhythms of Berry's writing, whether this is a sad book, and much, much more. If you enjoy this show, please support it on Patreon. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2018-05-181h 17