Bob and Ben delve into how Finnegans Wake, technology, and artists like Frank Zappa shape the way we see and feel art in today’s world.
Bob Dobbs is a McLuhan Scholar and Zappa researcher.
Ben Watson is the author of Frank Zappa: The Negative Dialectics of Poodle Play.
0:00 – Introduction and Relevance of “Finnegans Wake”
The relevance of “Finnegans Wake” to rock criticism. The interrelation between the avant-garde nature of the text and popular rock music, touching upon the intersection of rock and literature.
1:47 – Technological Evolution in Art and Aesthetics
The impact of mechanical recording on art and its revolutionary nature. They discuss the counterculture movement, the rhythms of life in the 20th century, and the aesthetic revolutions of the ’60s, emphasizing adapting to new electrified environments.
5:30 – Personal and Societal Interactions with “Finnegans Wake”
“Finnegans Wake” and critique of higher education’s approach to the text. Humorously envisioning the text as a business manual, and delve into McLuhan’s interpretation of the work.
12:18 – Artistic Communication and Media Influence
The influence of typography, headlines, and avant-garde publications in conveying messages. They reflect on their journey into modernist literature, the magic of authors post the printing press, and the evolution of creativity in society.
16:44 – The Invisible Transformation of Society
Discussion on the unnoticed revolution shaping society, artworks becoming commodities, and the desire for populist criticism.
20:09 – Quadrophenia
The role of art in challenging societal norms. Co-creation in art, shifting perspectives, the concept of “Quadrophenia”, and the balance between physical and digital presence in the modern world.
30:07 – Society’s Evolving Priorities
Critique of society’s emphasis on diet and the changing value systems that marginalize certain professions. The ‘Five Body model’ and the role of music in society.
37:06 – Consumerism
An exploration of consumerism’s challenges, justifications for professional choices, and global cynicism. McLuhanism, anti-capitalist sentiments in popular culture, and communication barriers in interpersonal interactions.
45:00 – Literature, Business, and Artistic Critiques
The multifaceted nature of “Finnegans Wake”, observations on modern business trends, and reflects on the works of musician Frank Zappa.
49:26 – Influences and Legacies in Music
The profound impact and legacy of musician Frank Zappa. Zappa’s unique approach to creativity, his challenges to traditional artistic norms, and how he exemplified a new wave of musical expression.
55:02 – Cinematic Interpretations and Authenticity
The speaker critiques the “Lord of the Rings” films, emphasizing the contrast between their polished cinematic nature and the raw, unbridled creativity showcased by artists like Frank Zappa.
Recorded November 18, 2009
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