The Allusionist

Kory Stamper, lexicographer and author of True Color, unpacks the baffling history of naming colours in dictionaries. She tells stories of odd comparative definitions, wartime color research, standards clashing with fashion, and how thousands of colour names exploded through industry and marketing. Short, surprising anecdotes and linguistic puzzles make the hunt for words for colour entertaining.

A romp through space-inspired words and how celestial ideas shaped English. Traces moon-related language from lunacy to honeymoon. Explores everyday objects mapped onto the heavens, like craters and orbits. Dives into comets as ‘cosmic hairballs’ and ancient meteor lore. Surveys global names for the Milky Way and surprising linguistic origins.

Join Alex Ketchum, a researcher specializing in feminist food spaces, as she delves into the captivating intersection of feminist cookbooks and restaurants. She challenges the limitations of wave-based feminist theory and highlights how cookbooks have fostered unique culinary networks. Discover her insights on how feminist and lesbian cookbooks subvert traditional gender roles, all while sharing hilarious anecdotes about everything from dinosaur poop to playful profanity. It's an engaging blend of food, feminism, and fun!

Dive into the whimsical world of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, featuring a live reading that captures Scrooge's transformation from miser to benefactor. Experience the eerie visit of Marley, the heartwarming moments with the Cratchit family, and the haunting glimpse of a lonely future. Explore themes of generosity, redemption, and the impact of one's choices on others. Join in the festive spirit as Scrooge learns the true meaning of Christmas, leading to heartwarming reconciliations and joyful acts of kindness.

Tim Brookes, a writer and the founder of the Endangered Alphabets Project, dives into the art of handwriting and its cultural significance. He candidly shares his journey from typewriters to the digital world, revealing the shame often associated with penmanship. Tim emphasizes the joy of writing by hand, exploring how it connects generations and preserves identity. He discusses the revival of endangered scripts, offering insights into playful and accessible methods to encourage handwriting for all.

So Mayer, a London-based bookseller and the author of Bad Language, dives deep into the relationship between language and identity. They explore how vocabulary can act as both a tool of oppression and liberation. Mayer discusses growing up under Section 28 and the chilling effects on queer visibility. The conversation also touches on the importance of listening as an act of consent and resistance, and how choosing specific terms can dismantle societal norms. Ultimately, they reveal the power of words in creating community and understanding.

In this engaging discussion, poet and performer Molly Naylor, who hosts Making Trouble, dives into creativity and the intricacies of podcasting. Topics range from navigating social media validation and negative feedback, to using thought-provoking prompts for idea generation. Naylor and Helen explore the balance between being present and transforming life experiences into creative material, while also debating what schools should teach for practical understanding. Along the way, they share insights on confronting mortality and the evolving landscape of independent podcasting.

Joining the discussion are Sam Helmick, President of the American Library Association, who's passionate about combating censorship, and Iris Mogul, a student and Youth Honorary Chair for Banned Books Week, who shares the youthful perspective on book challenges. They explore the significance of Banned Books Week, trends in book bans, and how these restrictions impact access to diverse narratives. The duo provides actionable steps listeners can take to oppose censorship, including starting book clubs and engaging in local activism.

Dr. Alex Ketchum, an assistant professor and author of *Ingredients for Revolution*, dives into the fascinating world of feminist restaurants and coffeehouses from the 1970s and 1980s. These spaces aimed to challenge traditional working hierarchies while promoting ethical sourcing and fair wages. Ketchum discusses their unique naming trends, the debates around inclusion, and the innovative practices like no-tipping that influenced modern dining. Despite their short lifespans, these establishments laid the groundwork for today's feminist and inclusive café culture.

Dive into the quirky world of language censorship, where innocent words are caught in a web of digital scrutiny. Hear about the unique history of Scunthorpe and its transformation from a collection of villages to a bustling town. Reflect on the unpredictability of legacy and community, and the heartfelt connections forged through local businesses. Plus, gain insights into the significance of beloved independent bookstores in maintaining cultural interactions. It's an educational yet entertaining exploration of language and community.