Jimmy Breslin discusses his novel, World Without End, Amen. The recording includes parts of an interview of Vince Maher (note: this is a code name for an anonymous individual), an excerpt from the novel, a recitation of Mike Royko's review of the novel, and an excerpt of a speech from Irish civil rights activist Bernadette Devlin.*Please note: some sections have been edited out from the original recording due to copyright considerations 

The New York Times correspondent in Moscow discusses and reads from his novel, The Gates of Hell. The book closely mirrors the life of Russian novelist and Soviet dissident Aleksandr Isayevich Solzhenitsyn.*Please note: some sections have been edited out from the original recording due to copyright considerations 

The musician and Lake Forest College scholar shares some of the songs and stories of his native Mawali and other East African traditions.*Please note: some sections have been edited out from the original recording due to copyright considerations 

Discussing the book "Not Exactly What I Had in Mind" (published by Atlantic Monthly Press) with the author, journalist and humorist Roy Blount.

Interviewing British dramatist-novelist Michael Frayn.

Discussing the book "Under the Skin: The Death of White Rhodesia," (published by Penguin) with author, dramatist and journalist David Caute and South African poet Dennis Brutus.

As a result of writing his book, "Hell's Angels: The Strange and Terrible Saga of the Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs," Hunter S. Thompson said he's become calmer and not so quick to react, in case a fight starts. Thompson believes the reason for the rise in violence is due to pent up anger and hostility. A clip of a former prize fighter describing how he threatens people to repay their debts is played.

The writer and public intellectual discusses his recent publications, Myron: A Novel, and, Burr, an historical novel about Founding Father, Aaron Burr.*Please note: some sections have been edited out from the original recording due to copyright considerations 

Writer Gore Vidal discusses his novel, 1876, and how the political corruption and social atmosphere of the times inspired its plot. Vidal reads several excerpts from the book.*Please note: some sections have been edited out from the original recording due to copyright considerations 

Writer Gore Vidal discusses his book, the Eastern philosophy behind it, and its themes on media sensationalism.*Please note: some sections have been edited out from the original recording due to copyright considerations 

Author, journalist, and historian Garry Wills discusses his book “Witches and Jesuits.” Wills’ book, and this discussion, focuses on recontextualizing Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” in the original setting of 17th century England, informing readers and listeners of how the play would have been received during that time and what exactly makes it a dark tale. Studs plays an English traditional song “Soul Cake” and a clip of a stage performance of William Shakespeare's "Macbeth" by Margaret Leighton.

Discussing the book "WLT, A Radio Romance," (published by Viking) with the author and radio host Garrison Keillor. Program also includes excerpts of a 1985 interview.