
Producer and writer John Yorke has worked in television and radio for 30 years, and he shares his experience with Radio 4 listeners as he unpacks the themes and impact behind the books, plays and stories that are being dramatised in Radio 4's weekend afternoon dramas.
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 120 | Founded | 3 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | BooksArts | |||

In the series that takes a look at books, plays and stories and how they work, John Yorke continues his exploration of Margaret Mitchell’s epic Civil War romance, Gone with the Wind.
In the 90 years since it was published it has sold more than 30 mi... more
In the series that takes a look at books, plays and stories and how they work, John Yorke explores Margaret Mitchell’s epic Civil War romance, Gone with the Wind.
It was the bestselling American novel of the 20th century, it has sold 30 million copi... more
During the mid-19th century America was undergoing unprecedented change. New railroads and canals allowed people and goods to criss-cross the country, as the old agrarian economy was replaced by a fast-paced industrialised one. This rapid market expa... more
The headless horseman who haunts Sleepy Hollow in Washington Irving’s ghost story has become an iconic figure in American popular culture, thanks to many film and TV adaptations, ranging from a 1922 silent movie to an episode of Scooby Doo.
John Yo... more
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If it’s about an old favorite, I find new ways of looking at it, and probably rereading. But most of these titles are unfamiliar to me. This podcast helps me decide what to read next. I’m very tired of popular fiction, and I’m always looking for something worthy of my limited attention.
Don’t you hate movie reviews that simply summarize the plot, spoilers and all? Well, usually that’s what happens in Opening Lines. Sigh
Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.
How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.
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Apple Podcasts | #156 |
Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.
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Focusing on the intricate themes, historical contexts, and character developments of notable literary works, this podcast offers deep analyses of beloved novels and plays. Each episode typically features expert guests who contribute their insights, making complex literary discussions accessible to a broader audience. Episodes often explore not only the text itself but also the societal implications and personal experiences tied to the narratives, creating a rich tapestry of discussion surrounding classic literature.
With a blend of narrative analysis and scholarly critique, the content is likely to appeal to literature enthusiasts, students of the arts, and anyone interested in the interplay of story and society. The presence of both seaso... more
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These podcasts share a similar audience with Opening Lines:
1. Bookclub
2. Great Lives
3. Backlisted
4. Desert Island Discs
5. This Cultural Life
Opening Lines launched 3 years ago and published 120 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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Recent guests on Opening Lines include:
1. Sarah Churchwell
2. Rachel Joyce
3. Elizabeth Bradley
4. Greg Foot
5. Jordan Abel
6. Natalie Haynes
7. Stephen Keyworth
8. Rebecca Romney
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