The Next Big Thing
For and Against
Show #426
Friday, February 27, 2004
The people take a stand. Writer Joshua Wolf Shenk takes a stand against the "Happy Birthday" song. Botanist Scott Mori rallies to the defense of an overlooked science. Criminal rights advocate Susan Hallett questions why we deprive four million citizens of the right to vote. Novelist Meg Wolitzer and singer-songwriter Suzzy Roche insist there is a place for inscrutable literature in the folk music idiom. Also, life after rock’n’roll fame – as imagined in a dramatic monologue by David Cale. And remembering alto saxaphonist Sam Furnace.
The Voice of the People
In the wake of President Bush’s call this week for an amendment to the U.S. Constitution banning gay marriage, Next Big Thing contributor Henry Alford takes to the street to ask, “what would you like to ban?”
Not That Song
Some people don’t like becoming a year older. Others are shy about all the attention. Joshua Wolf Shenk dreads birthdays for an entirely different reason, having to do with that simple song we sing dutifully, year in and year out. This year, he decided to put a stop to it. Produced by Curtis Fox.
» Visit Shenk's website
Lost Votes
Susan Hallett has voted just once in her life – but her lack of political participation is by no means a reflection of apathy. She is one of four million Americans who have lost the right to vote as the result of a felony conviction. Now she works as a paralegal, providing assistance to others with criminal records. She talks to host Dean Olsher about what the vote means to people like her. Produced by Amanda Aronczyk.
Rock Star in the Frozen Section
His name is Robert. He’s a retired musician in his late 40s, living in upstate New York, having chosen the simple life over rock’n’roll celebrity. Or so he thought. This work of fiction was written and performed by David Cale. Produced by Emily Botein. You can find more of David Cale’s contributions to the show in our archive.
Folk Songs for Grad Students
A heady collaboration, featuring novelist Meg Wolitzer and singer-songwriter Suzzy Roche, and inspired by the work of Susan Sontag, James Joyce and other sometimes-impenetrable writers. From The Next Big Thing’s live show at Joe’s Pub at the Public Theater in New York. Meg and Suzzy will be performing more of their songs on March 12 at Symphony Space.
» More information on the "I Could Write a Book" event
» Listen to Meg and Suzzy's bonus track, "Gravity's Rainbow".
Botany from Brazil to the Bronx
These days, in the wake of molecular biology botany is a humble science that feels like a relic of the 19th century. But New York Botanical Garden botanist Scott Mori remains true to his passion for plants, rainforests, and, in particular, the Brazil nut. He shows Dean why as they make their way through the Garden’s Herbarium.
Remembering Sam Furnace
If you’ve listened to our show theme, you’ve heard the passionate and playful sounds of saxophonist Sam Furnace. Furnace died last month at the age of 49, cutting short a career that included collaborations with Mongo Santamaria and other jazz greats. He is remembered here by his long-time friend and collaborator, alto saxophonist Roy Nathanson.
» Read all about the theme song
» Listen to the theme song
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