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.

Includes Lawrence Ferlinghetti reading and discussing his poems from his books "A Coney Island State of Mind" and "Big Table."

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.