Shows
Close Reads PodcastNow Available to Pre-order: "The Divided Soul: Duty and Desire in Literature and Life" by Heidi WhiteIn this very special episode we go behind-the-scenes with Heidi on her forthcoming book! What’s the origin story? Why is the topic so important to her? What was it like to write? How’s she feeling now? Plus Tim’s here! What a momentous day. Happy listening! Want to pre-order your copy? Click here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2025-03-0433 minClose Reads Podcast HQNow Available to Pre-order: "The Divided Soul: Duty and Desire in Literature and Life" by Heidi WhiteIn this very special episode we go behind-the-scenes with Heidi on her forthcoming book! What’s the origin story? Why is the topic so important to her? What was it like to write? How’s she feeling now? Plus Tim’s here! What a momentous day. Happy listening! Want to pre-order your copy? Click here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2025-03-0433 min
Close Reads PodcastThe Moving Toyshop: Second HalfAs we come to the end of our brief series on Edmund Crispin’s mystery novel, it’s time to discuss the puzzle (as it were). Does it work? How does it stack up? And then once that's out of the way, David, Heidi, and Sean dig into what really works in this book, whether it has anything serious to say, why there are so many Alexander Pope references, and much more! Happy listening!This episode is brought to you by our friends at Ekstasis magazine which helps a generation of Christians admire beauty and tune their spir...2023-10-1656 min
Close Reads PodcastOne Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich: Q&A EpisodeAs is our custom here at Close Reads, we’re here to answer your questions. So in this episode, David, Heidi, and Tim discuss questions about hope in Ivan Denisovich; the value of work in the story; the book’s structure; and much, much more. Happy listening! This episode is brought to you by our friends at Ekstasis magazine which helps a generation of Christians admire beauty and tune their spiritual and aesthetic affections. Check them out at ekstasismagazine.com! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or g...2023-10-031h 01
Close Reads PodcastOne Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich: To the EndWhat is the purpose of Alyosha? Is Shukov a hero? Is there a specific moral vision at the core of this story? What is the nature of symbolism in the narrative? Join David, Heidi, and Tim as they dig into these (and other) questions about Alexksandr Solzhenitsyn’s important novel. Happy listening! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2023-09-251h 00
Close Reads PodcastOne Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich: First HalfJoin David, Heidi, and Tim as they dig into Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn’s classic prison novel—one of the most influential books of the last century. This week we chat about the context of the book, the way Solzhenitsyn manages to create stakes even though the reader knows the ending, the way everyday things become beautiful, and much more. Happy reading! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2023-09-1952 min
Close Reads PodcastThe Picture of Dorian Gray: Q&A EpisodeYou have questions—we try to answer them. So join David, Heidi, and Tim as they discuss such things as the degree to which Basil deserves blame in Dorian’s fall, whether Wilde wants us to sympathize with his protagonist, whether Lord Henry is a good “villain,” and much more. Happy listening! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2023-09-121h 15
Close Reads PodcastThe Divided Soul in the American South: A Close Reads on the Road TalkNormally, we would be dropping a new subscriber-exclusive episode today, but since Monday was Labor Day we took the day off which means the newest episode on That Hideous Strength will come next week. Instead, we’re sharing a special treat: Heidi’s talk from the recent Close Reads on the Road event we hosted in August. So whether you were there and get to hear it again or you’re checking it out for the first time, happy listening! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access...2023-09-0844 min
Close Reads PodcastThe Picture of Dorian Gray: Final ChaptersThe final pages of The Picture of Dorian Gray are pretty wild, packed full of famous scenes and images, so join David, Heidi, and Tim as they discuss the demise of several characters, the question of conscience in the end of the story, and what the prologue can tell us about the conclusion. As always, happy listening!Close Reads HQ is a community-supported publication. Be sure to subscribe to gain access to bonus content while also making sure these episode continue getting produced! This is a public episode. If you'd like to...2023-09-051h 13
Close Reads Podcast HQThe Picture of Dorian Gray: Chapters 4-7Join David, Heidi, and Tim as they discuss the introduction of Sibyl Vane and her family, Dorian’s infatuation and un-infatuation with her, and the picture’s emerging frowny face. (To list just a few topics of conversation). This episode is made possible by our friends at CLT. You can check out what they’re up to at cltexam.com/closereads. If you would like to learn more about any of CiRCE’s Atrium courses, including Heidi’s on Shakespeare, please click here. This is a public episode. If you'd l...2023-08-2149 minClose Reads PodcastThe Picture of Dorian Gray: Chapters 4-7Join David, Heidi, and Tim as they discuss the introduction of Sibyl Vane and her family, Dorian’s infatuation and un-infatuation with her, and the picture’s emerging frowny face. (To list just a few topics of conversation). This episode is made possible by our friends at CLT. You can check out what they’re up to at cltexam.com/closereads. If you would like to learn more about any of CiRCE’s Atrium courses, including Heidi’s on Shakespeare, please click here. This is a public episode. If you'd l...2023-08-2149 min
Close Reads PodcastA Movie Adaptations DraftWe’re mixing things up this week! Join David, Heidi, and Sean as they draft the great cinematic adaptations ever made. And be sure to let us know who picked the best roster of films. Happy listening (watching)! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2023-08-0859 min
Close Reads PodcastEverything Sad Is Untrue: To the EndAnd so we come to the end. Join David, Heidi, and Sean as they dig into Daniel Nayeri’s novel as a whole (but especially the final passages, of course), the way book pays homage to the narrator’s mother, the complexity of his father’s visit, and much more. Happy listening!Close Reads is a community-supported publication and we need your support to keep on producing the content you love. Please consider subscribing to Close Reads HQ to ensure the future and to received some great bonus content, too! This is a publ...2023-07-2557 min
Close Reads PodcastEverything Sad Is Untrue: Through page 231This section of Daniel Nayeri’s novel included a lot of . . . well . . . poop. So on this week’s episode David, Heidi, and Sean discuss how Nayeri manages to make that topic funny and sad and profound all at once. Plus: the book’s great respect for the narrator’s mother. As always, happy listening! Close Reads HQ is a community-supported endeavor. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subs2023-07-1846 min
Close Reads PodcastEverything Sad Is Untrue: 1-114Daniel Nayeri’s Everything Sad is Untrue may be listed as a middle grade novel by its publisher, but it’s unlike almost any other novel in the category. So in this episode David, Heidi, and Sean discuss its unique stylistic approach and the way it conceives of stories as essential to culture, with a foray into some discussion about memory novels. Happy listening! Close Reads HQ is a community-supported endeavor. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber to ensure that we can keep on producing episodes like this one. This is a...2023-07-121h 05
Close Reads PodcastRemembering Cormac McCarthy, Part 2In this episode, Sean and Heidi join David and get their say about the legacy of Cormac McCarthy—and what makes his work sublime. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2023-06-2250 min
Close Reads PodcastThe Scarlet Letter: Final ChaptersAnd so we come to the end of another novel! Join David, Heidi, and Karen as they dig into the ending of Hawthorne’s novel, with special attention paid to Pearl’s role. Plus: how does the genre play into the end of the book, what do we do with Dimmsdale’s demise, and how does Hawthorne want us to respond to their plot to escape? Happy listening! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2023-06-201h 04
Close Reads PodcastThe Scarlet Letter: Chapters 14-19Heidi is in Greece this week (!), but David Kern and Karen Swallow Prior are back to continue this series on The Scarlet Letter. Topics of conversation include the way Hawthorne uses the setting to triangulate the characters, Hawthorne’s vision of the Good, Hester’s defense (as it were) of her affair with Dimmsdale, Hawthorne’s slippery tier of virtues, and comparing Hawthorne with Jane Austen. Happy listening! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2023-06-1448 min
Close Reads PodcastThe Scarlet Letter: Chapters 9-13Does this book offer an alternative vision to the spiritual corruption that it criticizes? How would it be different if Hawthorne was lest on-the-nose with his metaphors and character names? Join David, Heidi, and Karen as they explore these (and other) questions from Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel. Happy listening! Close Reads is a community-supported endeavor. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber to ensure ongoing production. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2023-06-0549 min
Close Reads PodcastThe Scarlet Letter: Chapters 4-8Join David, Heidi, and special guest, Karen Swallow Prior, for a conversation about this very famous and much-taught novel. Conversation touches on why this book has such a significant role in American English classrooms; Chillingsworth’s, well, chilling role; little Pearl’s emergence as a meaningful character; and much more. As always: happy listening! Close Reads HQ is a community-supported endeavor. If you like it, please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to b...2023-05-291h 06
Close Reads PodcastThe Optimist's Daughter: Parts 3 & 4What’s up with the birds? Is Fay even more despicable than we initially considered? Is the ending hopeful? Join David, Heidi, and Sean as they discuss these—and many other—questions on this week’s discussion of Eudora Welty’s The Optimist’s Daughter. Happy listening! Close Reads HQ is a community-supported endeavor. If you value what we do here, please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.s...2023-05-0259 min
Close Reads PodcastThe Optimist's Daughter: Parts 1 and 2Welcome to a new series of episodes on a new book! This week David, Heidi, and Sean are digging into Eudora Welty’s Pulitzer Prize winner, discussing such topics as the book’s similarities to Jane Austen’s work, whether Faye is purely an antagonist, the very Southern sense of humor in the story, and much more! Happy listening! Close Reads HQ is a community-supported endeavor. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get...2023-04-241h 01
Close Reads PodcastThe Diary of a Country Priest: Q&A EpisodeJoin Heidi and Sean as they answer your questions about Georges Bernanos’ novel! Thanks so much for participating in the conversation and happy listening! Up next, we’ll be discussing Eudora Welty’s The Optimist’s Daughter, starting with parts 1 and 2. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2023-04-181h 05
Close Reads PodcastThe Diary of a Country Priest: Chapters 7-8 (Finis)This week Sean & Heidi discuss the priest’s last days, his four final encounters, the purpose of the diary, and the mingling of grace and suffering that pervades the novel. JOIN US FOR “CLOSE READS ON THE ROAD” IN AUGUST, IN ATLANTA! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2023-04-101h 05
Close Reads PodcastDiary of a Country Priest: Chapters 5-6David’s sick, so this week Heidi and Sean discuss letting go of worldly attachments, the value of the priest’s weakness, his first spiritual successes, and his changing relationship with the diary. Close Reads is a community-supported endeavor. Please consider supporting our work by subscribing today! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2023-04-041h 07
Close Reads PodcastDiary of a Country Priest: Chapters 3-4Join David, Heidi, and Sean as they discuss insomnia, despair, the spiritual dark night of the soul, and much, much more found in Bernanos’ deeply contemplative novel. Close Reads is a community-supported endeavor. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber thereby ensuring the continued production of episodes like this one. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2023-03-271h 09
Close Reads PodcastThe Diary of a Country Priest: Chapters 1-2We’re on to Georges Bernanos’ contemplative novel, The Diary of a Country Priest, and in this episode David, Heidi, and Sean discuss the fascinating narrative approach Bernanos employs, what themes seem to matter most, the notion of contemplation in the book, and how to approach a book in which very little happens (on the surface). Future schedule: Episode 2 (March 27): Chapters 3-4Episode 3 (April 3): Chapters 5-6Episode 4 (April 10): To the endEpisode 5 (April 17): Q&AClick here to check out the upcoming CiRCE conference referenced at the top of this episode. This...2023-03-2145 min
Close Reads PodcastThe Netanyahus: FinisOkay, so that ending? What’s the deal. Join David, Heidi, and Tim as they try to understand what Cohen is doing. Lots of conversation about nihilism in this episode. Thanks for listening!Close Reads is a community-supported endeavor. Please subscribe to make sure we can keep on (while also getting access to subscriber-exclusive content). Thanks! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2023-02-201h 08
Close Reads PodcastThe Netanyahus: Chapters 1-4We are on to Joshua Cohen’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, The Netanyahus, a book that is clearly different in tone (and content) than most of the titles we traditionally discuss on this show. So in this episode David, Heidi, and Tim (he’s back!) contemplate the book’s sense of humor, Cohen’s remarkable prose, and what makes it memorable and worth reading. Happy listening! Close Reads is a community-supported endeavor. If you like what you hear and read, please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a pub...2023-02-0658 min
Close Reads PodcastPersuasion: FinisFinally, we can speak more freely about all of Persuasion, so this week David, Heidi, and Sean are discussing Wentworth’s love letter, Ann’s assessment of her own choices, the melancholy nature of this book, the differences between Eliot and Wentworth, the pantheon of Austen men, and much more. Don’t forget to answer this week’s question of the week below, What is the greatest love letter in any novel? Close Reads is a community-supported endeavor, so if you like what we’re doing here, please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber...2023-01-231h 06
Close Reads PodcastPersuasion: Vol. 1, chapters 7-12This section ends with a dangerous fall, but in the meantime we sure get a lot of scenes with people talking in rooms. So this week David, Heidi, and Sean are discussing Anne’s interiority and self-awareness and whether Austen portrays her self-sympathy as virtuous. Plus, discussions touches more on Austen’s complex (and amazing) approach to narrative voice. As always, happy reading! Close Reads is a community-supported endeavor. If you like what we’re up to, please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you...2023-01-091h 05
Close Reads PodcastPersuasion: Chapters 1-6It’s on to another great novel, this time by Jane Austen, so this week David, Heidi, and Sean discussed Austen’s unique use of free indirect discourse and other formal flourishes in this book, similarities and differences between this book and Austen’s other novels, and much more. Happy listening! Close Reads HQ is a community-supported endeavor. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber to ensure the show goes on. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus...2023-01-041h 04
Close Reads PodcastMy Name Is Asher Lev: Q&A EpisodeIt’s Q&A time, so join David, Heidi, and Tim as they dig into a bunch of great questions from the Close Reads community. Topics of conversation include orange juice, opportunistic agents, German philosophers, and much more!Close Reads HQ is a community-supported publication. Thanks so much for being a part of this endeavor in 2022! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2022-12-201h 10
Close Reads PodcastMy Name is Asher Lev: FinisWhat a book! This week you can tune in as David, Heidi, and Tim continue to rave about Chaim Potok’s skill, a few particularly miraculous passages, and the culmination of Asher’s coming-of-age. Close Reads is a community-supported endeavor. If you value what we’re up to please subscribe. Thanks! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2022-12-121h 10
Close Reads PodcastMy Name Is Asher Lev: Chapters 6-9This week David, Heidi, and Tim are discussing Jacob Kahn. Does the book view him as an arbiter of wisdom? Is he an antagonist of sorts? Also, can Asher be a unifier between two traditions? And how does the book reveal Asher’s individual healing? Happy listening! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2022-12-051h 00
Close Reads PodcastMy Name Is Asher Lev: Chapters 1-2Chaim Potok’s novel, My Name Is Asher Lev, is one of Tim’s favorite books, and its also one that has been nominated by listeners for a long time. So we’re thrilled to be digging into it. Here in episode one of this series, David, Heidi, and Tim discuss the way Potok skillfully reveals his protagonist’s unique gift; the questions the book asks about identity and family; and, naturally, a bit about the Jewish-American experience during the twentieth century. Happy listening! Classical U info: The classicalu4closereads2months coupon code above will provide...2022-11-151h 15
Close Reads PodcastA Gentleman in Moscow: FinisWe have come to the conclusion of Amor Towles’ novel, so this week David, Heidi, and Ian discussed the Casablanca of it all, whether the book ends in a satisfying fashion, and the count’s trajectory of growth. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2022-10-311h 02
Close Reads PodcastA Gentleman in Moscow: Book 4This week David, Heidi, and Ian discussed whether the Count has changed over the course of the story, whether he is a “whole” character, David’s wild (pretend) theory about this book, and more on Towle’s approach to POV. Happy listening! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2022-10-251h 09
Close Reads PodcastA Gentleman in Moscow: Pages 248-317This week David, Heidi, and Ian discussed whether this book is up to the ideas that it is asking us to contemplate, the meta elements of its presentation, the way this section knocks the count off his equilibrium, and much, much more.Happy listening! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2022-10-181h 05
Close Reads PodcastA Gentleman in Moscow: Pages 171-247This week David, Heidi, and Ian discussed the fascinating nature of the Count’s relationship with Anna; the book’s preoccupation with skill and craft; the way Europe hovers over the themes of the books; and much more. Happy listening! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2022-10-101h 07
Close Reads PodcastA Gentleman in Moscow: Book 2This week David, Heidi, and Ian discussed virtue, vice, and wine in A Gentleman in Moscow. Is that enough to prompt you to click play? Happy listening! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2022-10-031h 01
Close Reads PodcastA Gentleman in Moscow: 1-53Amor Towles’ 2016 novel is one the most requested books in the history of the Close Reads community, so it’s only fair that we finally dig in! Join David, Heidi, and special guest, Ian Andrews of the Center for Lit, for an initial discussion of the themes of the book, what Towles does well, a bit on the historical context, and a whole bunch of wine talk at the end. Happy listening! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subs...2022-09-201h 16
Close Reads PodcastLaurus: The Final ChaptersWhile Tim explores the Scottish Highlands in a kilt (we presume), David and Heidi are discussing the final pages of Laurus. Conversation touches on the cyclical nature of the story and its themes, the downfall (and rehabilitation) of Laurus’ reputation, his late-in-life second chance, his death/falling asleep, and much more. Thanks so much for listening! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2022-09-0656 min
Close Reads PodcastLaurus: Pages 237-279This week its Tim’s turn to be in Europe, so David and Heidi are holding down the podcast fort. The reading took us to the Book of Repose, so conversation touches on the untimely and fairly gruesome demise of Ambrogio, the book’s contemplation on the nature of time, the way the book is a form hagiography, and much, much more. Happy listening! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2022-08-3044 min
Close Reads PodcastLaurus: Pages 181-237During this week’s episode, Heidi was off on an adventure in Switzerland, so David and Tim held down the Close Reads fort, which just means they discussed Ambrogio the Italian, his strange visions, and his role in the book; the way the book layers deep philosophical questions into the narrative (including on the question of time); Tim’s grand theory for this book; and more.Close Reads HQ is a audience-supported endeavor. Please consider supporting us by subscribing. Thanks! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with othe...2022-08-2345 min
Close Reads PodcastLaurus: Pages 109-180Arseny has a new name and is on a new journey, so on this week’s episode David, Heidi, and Tim dig into Ustina the miracle worker, the self-awareness of the book, reading it from a theological perspective, why David has some reservations about it, and much more. Close Reads HQ is a community-supported endeavor and when you subscribe you help us pay the bills (and gain access to bonus content). Thanks! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bo...2022-08-161h 09
Close Reads PodcastLaurus: Pages 53-109This section of Laurus is fairly traumatic—so traumatic, in fact, that Heidi says she can barely bring herself to re-read it. So naturally David, Heidi, and Tim discussed what its purpose is, what Vodolazkin seems to be after, how they read this book, a few deep theological questions the book raises, and much more. Happy listening! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2022-08-081h 15Close Reads Podcast HQLaurus: Pages 53-109This section of Laurus is fairly traumatic—so traumatic, in fact, that Heidi says she can barely bring herself to re-read it. So naturally David, Heidi, and Tim discussed what its purpose is, what Vodolazkin seems to be after, how they read this book, a few deep theological questions the book raises, and much more. Happy listening! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2022-08-081h 15
Close Reads PodcastLaurus: Pages 3-53It’s time to launch our voyage into a new book. Over the next six weeks or so we’ll be traversing with Arseny across medieval Russia, contemplating all the while matters of history, faith, mysticism, wonder, beauty, tragedy, sin, repentance, guilt, love, and much more. Here on this first episode, David, Heidi, and Tim explain why they love this book so much, discuss what makes Vodolazkin such a gifted writer, contemplate the way the book approaches bodies and physicality, and offer some tips for reading the rest of the book. Happy listening!Close Reads is a co...2022-08-0255 min
Close Reads PodcastA Month in the Country: Q&A EpisodeAs always upon reaching the end of a book, it’s time for a Q&A episode. And, of course, you delivered plenty of great questions worthy of contemplation. So in this week’s episode David, Heidi, and Tim discussed the place of Moon (and his secret) within the narrative, the storyline of the falling man, why Kathy and Tom get on so well, and much more. Close Reads HQ is a community-supported endeavor. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to d...2022-07-251h 04
Close Reads PodcastWatch Along: Persuasion (2022)In which David and Sean make Heidi endure the slings and arrows of the new adaptation of her favorite Jane Austen novel—all for your entertainment. Along the way they discuss the way the filmmakers seem not to have read the book but also have a good eye for wardrobe (but again, even there, seem unfamiliar with when the book and ostensibly the movie itself, takes place). It’s a whole thing. Anyway, feel free to hit play on the movie at the same time we do, or to watch and then listen to our reactions later, or to just...2022-07-231h 52
Close Reads PodcastA Month in the Country: Pages 1-68The gang is back together! Join David, Heidi, and Tim as they chat about one of David’s favorite books, J.L. Carr’s A Month in the Country. In this episode, they discuss what Carr does especially well, the virtues of the book being short, the story’s place in World War I narratives, and much more. Happy listening! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2022-07-041h 03
Close Reads PodcastTess of the D'Urbervilles: Q&AJoin David, Heidi, and Karen as they conclude their conversation of Thomas Hardy’s Tess of the D’Urbervilles by answering your questions. Topics include Tess’s idealization of Angel, frustrations with the end of the book, the development of the novel as an art form, Hardy’s criticisms of his culture, Hardy’s use of symbolism, and much more! (And thanks to Karen Swallow Prior for joining us for this series!)Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber here at Close Reads HQ. Your support allows us to create bonus content, pay our team...2022-06-261h 05
Close Reads PodcastTess of the D'Urbervilles: Final ChaptersHere we are at the end of another novel. Join David, Heidi, and Karen as they compare Alec’s love for Tess with Angel’s, contemplate the way justice is explored in Tess’ conclusion, discuss the nature of classical tragedy, and much more! Close Reads is an audience-support endeavor and when you subscribe you gain access to special bonus content while also support a truly independent program. Subscribe now! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/su...2022-06-181h 17
Close Reads PodcastTess of the D'Urbervilles: Chapters 35-44Phase the fifth of Tess of the D’Urbervilles is incredibly sad, but it’s also remarkable in the way that Thomas Hardy manages to reveal the various complexities of his characters. So in this week’s episode David, Heidi, and Karen discuss the villainousness of Angel Clare, the choices of Tess, Hardy’s view of his culture, whether he gets women, and much more. Happy listening! Close Reads HQ is a community-supported endeavor. To receive bonus content, including subscriber-only episodes of the podcast, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This...2022-06-041h 09
Close Reads PodcastTess of the D'Urbervilles: Chapters 31-34Welp. It’s time for some confession. Here, right in the middle of Thomas Hardy’s masterpiece, we get a marriage followed by revelation. The courtship is over, the wedding day has arrived, and both parties bare their soul. And then we get a cliffhanger, of course. Join David, Heidi, and Karen as they discuss. Happy listening! Close Reads HQ is a community-supported endeavor and when you subscribe you get access to bonus content and you help us cover cost of production. This is a public episode. If you...2022-05-2753 min
Close Reads PodcastTess of the D'Urbervilles: Chapters 25-30As we draw near to the middle of Thomas Hardy’s great tragic novel, join Karen and Heidi (who are holding down the fort while David is sick) as they discuss Angel’s background and family life, Tess’s passivity, Hardy’s perspective on women, and the novel’s first glimpse into Angel’s underlying hypocrisy. Thanks for listening and for supporting Close Reads! Close Readsis made possibly by listeners like you! When you subscribe to Close Reads HQ you get access to bonus episodes, reviews, and more! This is a public epi...2022-05-2158 min
Close Reads PodcastTess of the D'Urbervilles: Chapters 16-24 (aka Phase the Third)“Phase the Third” of Tess of the D’Urbervilles is called “The Rally” so on this week’s conversation David, Heidi, and Karen discuss why Hardy called it that and what he might be saying about Tess as a character. Plus, discussion touches on what we’re supposed to think about Angel Clare, his budding romance with Tess, and his overly idealistic perception of her. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2022-05-1400 min
Close Reads PodcastTess of the D'Urbervilles: Chapters 12-15 (AKA Phase 2)Tess has returned home, but now she has baby with her, leading to one of the most beautiful and famous sciences in English literature in which Tess sorrowfully baptizes the poor little one. So this week, David, Heidi, and Karen dig in that scene and contemplate what Thomas Hardy is saying through it. Plus, discussion touches on the role Tess’s mother plays in her daughter’s misfortunes. Thanks for listening! Close Reads is a listener-supported production. So on the one hand, when you subscribe you help us meet our expenses, but you also do y...2022-05-071h 04
Close Reads PodcastTess of the D'Urbervilles: Chapters 6-11In this week’s episode on Thomas Hardy’s Tess of the D’Urbervilles, David, Heidi, and special guest Karen Swallow Prior chat about artistic and naturalistic determinism in Hardy’s work, his hatred of Victorian moralism, and whether or not the novel idealizes Tess. And treacle. Definitely treacle. Thanks for listening! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2022-04-291h 05
Close Reads Podcast1984: The Final ChaptersWelp, Winston Smith loves Big Brother but he doesn’t love Julia. So, in the end, do we love this book? Tune in to find out, as David, Heidi, and Tim chat about the recurring themes of the book, Orwell’s apparent goals, and the importance of his book within the culture at large. Happy listening!This is a free episode of Close Reads, but this show is part of how we make a living, so if you’re able to support us financially here on Substack we’d sure appreciate it. And the great thing is we have...2022-04-0158 min
Close Reads PodcastAs I Lay Dying: Episode 4And so we come to the end. Join David, Heidi, and Tim as they dig (no pun intended) into the fiery (pun intended) ending to this classic book. Where do the book's sympathies lie in the end? Why did Darl go mad? Who is trustworthy? These and many other questions get discussed. Happy listening! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2022-02-251h 14
Close Reads PodcastBonus Episode: Death on the Nile Movie DiscussionJoin David and Heidi as they dig in to Kenneth Branagh's movie adaptation of Death on the Nile. Is the movie in on the joke? Why is there no sand? What's up with Gal Gadot? Why do mustaches need back stories? These and many other questions get contemplated. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2022-02-2336 min
Close Reads PodcastAs I Lay Dying: Episode 3In which David, Heidi, and Tim discuss river crossings, which characters the books seems to have the most sympathy for, and much more. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2022-02-181h 08
Close Reads Podcast HQAs 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. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2022-02-111h 15Close Reads PodcastAs 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. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2022-02-111h 15
Close Reads PodcastAs I Lay Dying: Episode 1Join David, Heidi, and Tim as they dig into the first quarter of William Faulkner's infamous (and mildly inscrutable) novel, As I Lay Dying. Topics of conversation include tops for reading Faulkner, the various points-of-view that tell the story, what happens at the outset, and much more. This episode is brought to you be BiblioFiles. Learn more at centerforlit.com. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit...2022-02-051h 04
Close Reads PodcastA Confederacy of Dunces: Q&A EpisodeIt's time to answer your questions about A Confederacy of Dunces! Join the David, Heidi, and Tim as they discuss characters like Jones and Levy, books similar to Dunces, and much more -- plus, naturally, some Christmas chatter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2021-12-261h 20
Close Reads PodcastA 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. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2021-12-181h 03
Close Reads PodcastA Confederacy of Dunces: Chapters 4-6Join David, Heidi, and Tim as they continue to discuss Ignatius J. Reilly and his "worldview," including some discussion about why he has to be quite so gross. Also: what's the deal with all the geometry talk? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2021-11-2849 min
Close Reads PodcastA Confederacy of Dunces: Chapters 1-3A Confederacy of Dunces is one of the more strange books we have ever done on this show, but over the next several weeks David, Heidi, and Tim are going to do their best to explain what makes it a worthwhile work of literature. This week they discuss the book's sad origin story, its medieval influences, its comedic core, and its outrageous protagonist. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack...2021-11-191h 08
Close Reads PodcastA Gathering of Old Men: Q&A EpisodeAs usual, you asked great questions and we did our best to answer! Join David, Heidi, and Tim as they conclude their discussion of A GATHERING OF OLD MEN. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2021-11-151h 12
Close Reads PodcastA Gathering of Old Men: To the EndWas justice met in the end? Why does the story end with Lou Dimes' perspective? Is the ending satisfying? Is it happy? These and other questions were address on this week's episode. Join David, Heidi, and Tim as they dive into the final pages of A Gathering of Old Men. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2021-11-071h 03
Close Reads PodcastA 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. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2021-10-2953 min
Close Reads PodcastA Gathering of Old Men (pages 1-57)It's time for a new book! Join David, Heidi, and Tim as they discuss Ernest J. Gaines' A Gathering of Old Men. This week they dive into Gaines' use of multiple perspectives and how it helps him to explore the complex issues of race and place in the Deep South. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2021-10-181h 04
Close Reads PodcastThe Book of the Dun Cow: Q&A EpisodeThis week David, Heidi, and Tim take a crack at answering your many thoughtful question about Walter Wangerin Jr.'s novel. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2021-10-011h 00
Close Reads PodcastThe Book of the Dun Cow: To the EndJoin David, Heidi, and Tim as they dig into the conclusion of The Book of the Dun Cow, discussing the nature of heroism in this novel and our protagonist rooster's ultimate fate. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2021-09-2456 min
Close Reads PodcastBonus Pod: Discussing the 2022 Reading ListJoin David, Heidi, and Tim as they make the final choices for the 2022 reading list! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2021-09-2433 min
Close Reads PodcastThe Book of the Dun Cow: Part 2In which Tim has done the reading but has some problems with it while Heidi loves it unabashedly. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2021-09-1757 min
Close Reads PodcastThe Book of the Dun Cow: Part 1It's time for a new book: Walter Wangerin Jr.'s The Book of the Dun Cow. Join David, Heidi, and Tim as they discuss the medieval aspects of this story and the degree to which is should be read as an allegory. Also, Tim makes a blunder. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2021-09-101h 07
Close Reads PodcastTheir Eyes Were Watching God: Q&A EpisodeYou have questions; Tim, Heidi, and David have answers. Or try to have answers anyway. Tune in to find out if they say anything cogent. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2021-09-041h 05
Close Reads PodcastTheir Eyes Were Watching God: ConclusionJoin David, Heidi, and Tim as they talk about the final chapters of Zora Neale Hurston's novel. They discuss Janie's growth, Tea Cake's love, and rabies. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2021-08-271h 01
Close Reads PodcastTheir Eyes Were Watching God: Chapters 6 -10This week David, Heidi, and Tim are digging into the middle of Zora Neale Hurston's novel, talking about some of the risky creative choices she makes, Janie's silence and rage, why the book can be challenging at times, and much more. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2021-08-141h 13
Close Reads PodcastTheir Eyes Were Watching God: Chapters 1-5Join David, Heidi, and Tim as they dive into a new book: Zora Neale Hurston's Their Eyes Were Watching God. In this episode they discuss what makes Janie Crawford such a compelling character and Hurston's unique approach to point of view and narrative. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2021-08-071h 07
Close Reads PodcastAll the Pretty Horses Q&A EpisodeJoin David, Heidi, and Tim as they attempt to answer your questions about Cormac McCarthy's All the Pretty Horses! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2021-08-021h 41
Close Reads PodcastAll the Pretty Horses: Episode 6We have come to the end of John Grady Cole's journey -- and this episode is a doozy. It's long and it digs deep and we hope you like. So join David, Heidi, and Tim as they discuss their evolving perceptions of this novel, why it features the only ending it could have rightly had, the themes of justice and confession, and much, much more. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit...2021-07-161h 32
Close Reads PodcastAll the Pretty Horses: Episode 5In which the novel takes yet another turn. This week David, Heidi, and Tim discuss whether the philosophizing of this section works, what McCarthy is trying to say, and the strange appearance of numerous little kindnesses. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2021-07-0955 min
Close Reads PodcastAll the Pretty Horses: Episode 3This week David, Heidi, and Tim discuss the way All the Pretty Horses is multiple kinds of book in one, the fascinating romance at the core of the story, and the way McCarthy writes about work so poetically. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2021-06-261h 22
Close Reads PodcastAll the Pretty Horses: Episode 2After a delay due to some technical difficulties, we are back and on this episode David, Heidi, and Tim discuss lightening storms, horses, and orphans in Cormac McCarthy's All the Pretty Horses. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2021-06-211h 07
Close Reads PodcastAll the Pretty Horses: Pages 1-59In which Tim returns, we introduce Cormac McCarthy, and we discuss his formal genius. Join David, Heidi, and Tim as they dive into All the Pretty Horses, looking at a couple of essential early passage that define the book and its themes, as well as the uniquely Old Testament formal approach McCarthy brings to his books. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2021-06-041h 06
Close Reads PodcastJane Eyre: Q&A EpisodeYou have questions and we have answers--or at least thoughts. Join David, Heidi, and Karen as they answer your questions about Charlotte Bronte's Jane Eyre. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2021-05-291h 13
Close Reads PodcastJane Eyre: Final ChaptersIn which St. John is persistent, Jane hears her call, and Rochester is repentant. Join David, Heidi, and Karen as they discuss the conclusion to Charlotte Bronte's novel! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2021-05-221h 09
Close Reads PodcastJane Eyre: Chapters 28-33First Jane is poor, then she is rich. And along the way it's all about the friends she makes. Join David, Heidi, and Karen as they discuss compare St. John and Rochester, discuss Jane's continued evolution, and Charlotte Bronte's skill. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2021-05-0759 min
Close Reads PodcastJane Eyre: Chapters 25-27In which, well, Jane's dreams are dashed and we learn that Rochester isn't exactly what she thought. Join David, Heidi, and Karen as they discuss Jane's virtue, Rochester's complicated nature (and situation), and much more. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe2021-05-0156 min
The Daily PoemMark Van Doren's "In bitterness of heart I write"Today's episode is from Mark Van Doren and Heidi White and Tim McIntosh join David to discuss it briefly . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dailypoempod.substack.com/subscribe2020-05-1909 min
The Daily PoemThomas Merton's "Elegy for the Monastery Barn"Today's poem is Thomas Merton's "Elegy for the Monastery Barn." Thanks to Heidi White for filling in for David today. If you like this episode please be sure to rate and review wherever you listen to podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dailypoempod.substack.com/subscribe2020-05-0511 min
The Daily PoemR.S Thomas' "90th Birthday"Today is Heidi White's birthday so it seemed only right to give her a chance to share one of her favorite poems. So today she fills in for David and reads R.S Thomas' "90th Birthday." Happy Birthday to Heidi! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dailypoempod.substack.com/subscribe2020-04-2409 min
The Daily PoemShel Silverstein's "Sick"Today's poem is Shel Silverstein's "Sick." Thanks to Heidi White for filling in for David while he recovers from being sick. Remember, when you rate and review the podcast (wherever you get podcasts) you help us spread the word. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dailypoempod.substack.com/subscribe2020-01-0706 min
The Daily PoemGeorge Mackay Brown's "Epiphany Poem"David Kern is sick so Heidi White is filling in today. The poem is George Mackay Brown's "Epiphany Poem." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dailypoempod.substack.com/subscribe2020-01-0607 min
The Goldberry Books PodcastLibromania Top 5: The Most Romantic BooksWelcome back to Libromania, a podcast for the book-obsessed. In this episode, David is joined by Heidi White and Tim McIntosh to talk the most romantic books ever written. In honor of Valentine's Days, they each present their 5 favorite romantic books - with a little bit of discussion on what makes a book really, truly romantic. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe This is a...2019-02-131h 05