Discussing the book of poetry "The Garden of Earthly Delights" with poet Paul Carroll, winner of the 1985 Chicago Poets Award.

Norman Mailer discusses his writing, literary criticism, and American life. Other topics of conversation include Mailer’s thoughts on “affirmative” literary works, apathy and a lack of passion in modern life, beat writers and their reception in the United States, and many of his contemporary writers.

Co-founder of the bookstore City Lights Booksellers & Publishers, poet and social activist Lawrence Ferlinghetti discusses his latest work which reflects on his youth and travels to Europe. Ferlinghetti recites pieces from his current work on the topics of Spain, France, and Italy. The poet also reflects on his previous work and his view on the Beat Generation.

The American author of fiction and nonfiction talks about her memoir, Minor Characters, and the time that she spent with Jack Kerouac and the other artists that made up the Beat Generation. The program includes clips from an earlier conversation with Allen Ginsberg, Gregory Corso, and Peter Orlovsky.*Please note: some sections have been edited out from the original recording due to copyright considerations 

Poets Gregory Corso, Allen Ginsberg, and Peter Orlovsky, speak with Studs Terkel about their influences and what made them into the poets they are. Terkel reads a preface, written by William Carlos Williams, to Ginsberg’s poem “Howl.”

A member of the Beat Generation, activist, and author Allen Ginsberg discusses his latest work and its reflection on his life. The piece covers works such as the infamous poem Howl to the sentimental piece called Aunt Rose.