This episode is from the WNYC archives. It may contain language which is no longer politically or socially appropriate.

Seldes discusses Frank Lloyd Wright. He discusses his early career and notes that he had some years before he formed his perfected style. He was never neglected by the media. He discusses the chip on Wright's shoulder about mass produced items. He refers to a Wright quote about "art is down there with a can of beans." Seldes notes that you can spice up a can of beans. He discusses the European perception of American architecture as an assertion of independence unlike any other art.
He discusses functionality and beauty, and the history of architecture.

Seldes goes on to talk about James Joyce. He notes the book "It Isn't This time of Year at All" by Oliver St. John Gogarty. He discusses some of the storyline of the book. He notes that aside from the particular anecdote most of what Gogarty says about Joyce in his book is unfavorable.

Finally, Seldes discusses the treatment of intellectuals. Relates this to communism and Stalinist Russia. He goes on to relate the lack of respect for American intellectuals has to do with the lack of historical education in the United States' education system.

For more on Frank Lloyd Wright, please visit http://www.wnyc.org/blogs/neh-preservation-project/2013/feb/25/frank-lloyd-wright/

Audio courtesy of the NYC Municipal Archives WNYC Collection

WNYC archives id: 71502
Municipal archives id: LT3088