Ralph Ellison, winner of the National Book Award for Fiction for his book "Invisible Man," discusses his early life and education and his life as a writer and lifetime scholar. He speaks on being a musician (trumpet), the joy of music and the Church and how they fit into the lives of African Americans.
Poet, critic and writer Al Alvarez talks about his personal experiences and how it interlaces with literature and poetry.
Interviewing Jack LaPorte (part 2) - (part 1 is missing) - while Studs was in England. 05:06 cuts out and begins interview with Al Alvarez. Albert Alvarez, poet, writer and critic, discusses how technology advancement is changing society. He specifically discusses war in general, the Holocaust and advancements in destructive weapons. He speaks fondly of Sylvia Plath, and discusses his current book, "Beyond All This Fiddle: Essays, 1955-1967."
Studs Terkel interviews composer Ned Rorem. They discuss Rorem's childhood, music, poetry, languages, and religion.
Terkel interview author Geoffrey Wolff about his latest book. Entitled "Black Sun," it is a biography of Harry Crosby.
Terkel interviews author Jonathan Yardley on his latest book. This book titled "Ring" is a biography of the sports writer columnist Ring Lardner.