Close Readings
London Review of BooksClose Readings is a new multi-series podcast subscription from the London Review of Books. Two contributors explore areas of literature through a selection of key works, providing an introductory grounding like no other. Listen to some episodes for free here, and extracts from our ongoing subscriber-only series. How To Subscribe In Apple Podcasts, click 'subscribe' at the top of this podcast feed ... more
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 204 | Founded | 3 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | BooksCoursesEducationArts | |||
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Latest Episodes
Mary Shelley signed off her introduction to the 1831 edition of Frankenstein by bidding her ‘hideous progeny go forth and prosper’. In this episode of The Man Behind the Curtain, Tom McCarthy and Thomas Jones look at the machinery that Shelley used t... more
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Sometime in 1711, a twenty-year-old aristocrat, Lord Petre, snipped a lock of hair, without permission, from the head of Arabella Fermor, a celebrated beauty. The incident caused an irreconcilable rift between the two families, who were both Catholic... more
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Reviews
- Just fabulous, never stop
These are some of the best discussions on literature I’ve ever encountered, including at uni. The conversation between two thoughtful people is one of the best formats anyway. These dialogues aren’t quite Socratic, but they’re almost as good. With Seamus & Mark, the original two, the result is quite wonderful if you love literature & like to think about it. The fact that Mark is a functioning poet as well makes his insights a little different. The Jonathan Rae/James Wood series was also really g... more
Apple Podcasts5Barbary Duck
United Kingdom9 days ago - Superb podcast!
At college I majored in a hard science … but loved the humanities and always tried to keep up with literature. And now Close Readings helps me relive those texts, while introducing me to others. I so enjoy listening to these - very engaging and pitched at a level that’s easily accessible. Thank you!
Apple Podcasts5Ca from LA in Pa
United States19 days ago - Stop repeating words
London series would be great if it were not for the speaker constantly repeating words. Had to bail out, I’ll afraid, too annoying.
Apple Podcasts3doublledd
Australiaa month ago - As Open as Open University
Ignore the accents if they make you think the speakers are fancy or somehow evil. The podcasts are the peak of how adult education should be carried out, at least in the liberal arts & sciences. No condescending but both speakers usually strive for clarity. And pack even one hour with to my mind fun facts. One can imagine an assiduous learner perhaps doing ten short ids after listening. And then one can review by listening again. Multiple guess would be harder, they are harder to craft. At least... more
Apple Podcasts5RobCroweUnited Statesa month ago - Feels like being at uni again only better
This is my favourite podcast. Mark and Seamus are my favourite LRB pairing of all the brilliant pairings. They are a right pair of brain boxes it must be said but I just love listening to them talk about poetry with such knowledge and loving care. The threads about fiction and philosophy are equally marvellous with obviously high calibre speakers and well selected books. My only criticism is that the podcasts are far too fast and way too short. With more time the presenters could relax a bit mor... more
Apple Podcasts5LleynSeanUnited Kingdom4 months ago
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Chart Rankings
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Apple Podcasts | #63 | United States/Arts/Books |
Apple Podcasts | #189 | United States/Arts |
Apple Podcasts | #10 | United Kingdom/Arts/Books |
Apple Podcasts | #29 | United Kingdom/Arts |
Apple Podcasts | #54 |  Canada/Arts/Books |
Apple Podcasts | #153 | Canada/Arts |
Talking Points
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Frequently Asked Questions About Close Readings
What is Close Readings about and what kind of topics does it cover?
Offering an in-depth exploration of literature, this subscription-based series raises critical discussions on notable works and themes across various genres. With a roster of expert voices hosting each episode, listeners are treated to a blend of literary analysis and contextual commentary, often reflecting on significant cultural and historical narratives. Unique highlights include dual series focusing on the intricate link between literature and contemporary societal issues, providing an intellectual boost for both avid readers and those with a budding interest in literary criticism. The thoughtful structure encouraging thoughtful engagement with texts makes it particularly appealing to those invested in the arts and literature.
Where can I find podcast stats for Close Readings?
Rephonic provides a wide range of podcast stats for Close Readings. We scanned the web and collated all of the information that we could find in our comprehensive podcast database. See how many people listen to Close Readings and access YouTube viewership numbers, download stats, audience demographics, chart rankings, ratings, reviews and more.
How many listeners does Close Readings get?
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What are the audience demographics for Close Readings?
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How many subscribers and views does Close Readings have?
To see how many followers or subscribers Close Readings has on Spotify and other platforms such as Castbox and Podcast Addict, simply upgrade your account. You'll also find viewership figures for their YouTube channel if they have one.
Which podcasts are similar to Close Readings?
These podcasts share a similar audience with Close Readings:
1. The LRB Podcast
2. London Review Bookshop Podcast
3. The TLS Podcast
4. Past Present Future
5. Backlisted
How many episodes of Close Readings are there?
Close Readings launched 3 years ago and published 204 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
How do I contact Close Readings?
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Where can I see ratings and reviews for Close Readings?
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How do I access podcast episode transcripts for Close Readings?
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What guests have appeared on Close Readings?
Recent guests on Close Readings include:
1. Matthew Davies
2. Tom McCarthy
3. Tom Crew
4. Mark Ford
5. Mary Wellesley
6. Ruth Bernard Yeazell
7. Deborah Friedell
8. Stefanie Markovits
To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.