
Few literary terms are more hotly debated, discounted, or derided than the "Great American Novel." But while critics routinely dismiss the phrase as at best hype and as at worst exclusionary, the belief that a national literature commensurate with both the scope and the contradictions of being American persists. In this podcast Scott Yarbrough and Kirk Curnutt examine totemic works such as Herman ... more
| Publishes | Infrequently | Episodes | 35 | Founded | 5 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Category | Arts | ||||

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Ernest Hemingway's 1929 novel A Farewell to Arms is probably the most famous war novel in American literary history. Inspired by his own wounding on the Italian front shortly before his nineteenth birthday, Hemingway tells the story o... more
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In this, our 34th episode of the Great American Novel podcast, the hosts tackle Colson Whitehead’s intriguing, interesting, and in some surprising ways challenging award-winning 2016 novel, The Underground Railroad. This novel works ... more
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More celebrated for her dark, satirical short stories, Flannery O'Connor nevertheless burst on the literary scene in 1952 in her mid-twenties with her debut novel, Wise Blood. The story of a would-be preacher resistant to God's grace,... more
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In Episode 32 of the Great American Novel podcast, we slip through time with Billy Pilgrim as we shuffle between the character’s experiences as a prisoner of war and first hand witness to the Dresden firebombing in World War II and th... more
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Life is busy and I often miss my roots as a student of literature and art. Listening to this podcast returns me to one of my great loves, reminds me of the great books I’ve read or still need to read. Scott and Kirk are clearly great enthusiasts and lovers of great lit and I’m always engrossed in their conversation. Unmissable for any serious reader.
Outstanding podcast, the discussions are very accessible and Scott and Kirk have a great cadence throughout and a lot of helpful background information and context within each discussion. Happily making my way through each of them.
If you have any interest at all in American literature this is the podcast for you. Erudite without being boring, it is bringing me back to so many novels I have read and loved and left behind. Thank you!
Best literature podcast I’ve heard. Super informative, engaging, and educational.
Excellent analysis. Able to discuss difficult topics without being preachy. Can tell they are good teachers. Shout out to the big homie Scott Yarbrough.
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Apple Podcasts | #243 |
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This podcast offers an insightful exploration into the works labeled as the 'Great American Novel' (GAN), tackling the complexities and historical contexts behind these significant literary pieces. Hosts Scott Yarbrough and Kirk Curnutt engage in thoughtful discussions examining the themes, styles, and societal implications found in totemic texts such as 'Moby-Dick' and 'Beloved.' The conversations not only provide literary analysis but also connect these works to broader cultural themes and historical narratives, making them accessible for both seasoned readers and those new to the classics. Unique in its blending of scholarly analysis with engaging dialogue, this podcast encourages listeners to reconsider the landscapes of American litera... more
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Great American Novel launched 5 years ago and published 35 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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