The big question: are we living in a literary golden age or a post-literate society ???

On this week’s episode we’re doing something a little different to our usual bookish chats, and we’re breaking down a couple of intriguing Substack essays on the combined subject of literature and society. Our primary references include ‘Ignore the pessimists – we are living through a literary golden age’ by Henry Oliver versus ‘The dawn of the post-literate society’ by James Marriott. From the simultaneous (oddly, and apparently) global decrease and increase in reading to the role of screens in the downfall of reading comprehension, we wade through the facts, the arguments, and our own experiences to come to a conclusion about the current state of the literary world. But, we’re also interested to hear what you guys think – tune in and join the debate!

S6 E6: Join us in conversation with Gregory Grosvenor, writer, author, teacher and fellow only child. We talk about Greg’s early inspirations in writing, from growing up in Germany, supportive parents, and an early conviction to write. We then delve into a myriad of topics including Greg’s experience as a creative writing teacher, his past as an alcoholic, and of course, his debut novel, Second Pocket First, full of quirky characters, bucolic Vermont scenery, great outfits, and some good old fashioned burglary.

To learn more about Greg Grosvenor and to purchase Second Pocket First, you can check out his website, and follow him on Instagram.

In this episode we talk to Laura Goode, author, essayist, poet, screen writer, and educator, about her latest book, Pitch Craft. Pitch Craft is all about the art of presenting yourself as a person and a writer, but our conversation doesn’t just end there. From talking about the quirks and perks of being an only child to the magic of female friendship, this is a conversation that explores the hidden side of writing – the part which is less about the writing itself than it is about connecting with yourself and the people around you.

To learn more about Laura Goode and to purchase Pitch Craft, you can check out her website, and follow her on Instagram.