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Fresh Air
Weekdays at 7:00pm
Opening the window on contemporary arts and issues with guests from worlds as diverse as literature and economics.
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Rachel Kushner's new espionage thriller may be her coolest book yet
In Creation Lake, a hard-drinking American spy infiltrates a radical farming collective in a remote region of France. Kushner challenges readers to keep up with her and not to flinch.
How The 'Golden Age' Of Corporate Musicals Used Songs To Boost Sales
by Terry Gross
Sheldon Harnick, John Russell and Steve Young discuss "industrial musicals," Broadway-style productions written and performed at the behest of corporations. Originally broadcast Nov. 5, 2013.
Stylistically Dazzling 'Vox Lux' Draws Link Between Pop Stardom And Terrorism
by John Powers
Natalie Portman plays a young Christian woman who is propelled to pop stardom following a mass shooting. Critic John Powers says Vox Lux is inventive — and exasperating.
Actor Lucas Hedges On 'Ben is Back', ADHD And Crying On Screen
by Terry Gross
Best known for his roles in Manchester by the Sea and Lady Bird, Hedges stars as a teenager in rehab for opioid addiction in Ben is Back. He's also nominated for a Golden Globe for Boy Erased.
Back For Season 2, 'Mrs. Maisel' Remains A Comedy Of The Highest Caliber
by David Bianculli
The new season of the Emmy Award-winning series finds Midge Maisel mired in personal crises, even as her comedy career is on the rise. David Bianculli says The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel remains a winner.
'All That Heaven Allows' Examines Rock Hudson's Life As A Closeted Leading Man
by Terry Gross
Hudson lived a double life as a Hollywood heartthrob and a closeted gay man. Biographer Mark Griffin says Hudson's death from AIDS in 1985 was a turning point in public awareness of the epidemic.
Jazz Pianist Kenny Werner Shines As A Solo Act In 'The Space'
by Kevin Whitehead
Werner named his new album after his state of mind when he's improvising. Jazz critic Kevin Whitehead says Werner's piano sings with the voice of experience.
Chef Samin Nosrat Shares The Power Of 'Salt Fat Acid Heat' On Netflix
by Sam Briger
Nosrat says there are four elements in cooking, and if you understand how they work, you can make delicious food. She travels the world to learn more about those elements in her new four-part show.