Just A Few Important Words About The Declaration Of Independence

Source: NPR

Stephen Lucas, a professor of humanities, analyzes the language of the Declaration of Independence.

Does Fiction Have the Power to Sway Politics?

Source: The New York Times

Two writers argue that works of fiction can trigger political change, sometimes directly, but more often, indirectly. Upton Sinclair, author of The Jungle, is one example.

In The Shadow Of Kafka: David Baddiel explores “The Metamorphosis” for new BBC radio series

Source: The Independent

Franz Kafka’s novella “The Metamorphosis” baffled readers when it first appeared in print a century ago. A new radio series explores its continuing influence.

Secrets Behind the Sidewalk: How 3D Sidewalk Art Is Made

Source: Creative Guerilla Marketing

Julian Beever and other 3D sidewalk artists use perspective to their advantage to help them fool the eyes of viewers. Learn about the techniques that create such convincing illusions.

Brain scans gauge horror flick fear factor

Source: CNN

Film producer Peter Katz experiments with the use of brain scans to find out just how scary his movies are. Do you think that using medical science in this way interferes with the art of making horror movies?

Lincoln and Douglass Shared Uncommon Bond

Source: NPR

In this interview, John Stauffer, author of the book Giants: The Parallel Lives of Frederick Douglass and Abraham LIncoln, discusses the two men’s friendship and their mutual respect for each other.

Why the Story of Cinderella Endures and Resonates

Source: Smithsonian

The story of Cinderella has been told for centuries. James Deutsch, a professor of folklore, explains why Americans are particularly drawn to the tale.

Why we quoth ‘The Raven’ evermore

Source: The Washington Post

Editor Ron Charles critiques a new book about Edgar Allan Poe and ponders over the writer’s popularity with audiences and his scorn from academics.

What Are The Dangers Of A Single Story?

Source: NPR

In this radio interview, author Chimamanda Adichie discusses the benefits of hearing stories from multiple points of views. Her original TED Talk on the subject is also included.

Jonathan Swift Biography

Source: Biography

Jonathan Swift, the 18th-century Irish writer and satirist, worked in many professions and eventually became a man of some influence.