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<rss xmlns:itunes="http://www.itunes.com/dtds/podcast-1.0.dtd" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:podcast="https://podcastindex.org/namespace/1.0" xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" version="2.0"><channel><title>Against The Grain, or Against Nature</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/against-the-grain-or-against-nature--6883169</link><description><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></description><atom:link href="https://www.spreaker.com/show/6883169/episodes/feed" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/><language>en</language><category>Books</category><copyright>Copyright Culture and Heritage classics</copyright><image><url>https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg</url><title>Against The Grain, or Against Nature</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/against-the-grain-or-against-nature--6883169</link></image><lastBuildDate>Mon, 24 Aug 2026 09:50:39 +0000</lastBuildDate><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:owner><itunes:name>Culture and Heritage classics</itunes:name><itunes:email>spreaker26@adfreesounds.com</itunes:email></itunes:owner><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:subtitle>Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></itunes:summary><itunes:category text="Arts"><itunes:category text="Books"/></itunes:category><itunes:category text="Fiction"/><itunes:category text="Society &amp; Culture"><itunes:category text="Philosophy"/></itunes:category><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><podcast:guid>e5cf3d80-a982-560a-941c-4b83eb60751e</podcast:guid><itunes:type>episodic</itunes:type><item><title>Adventures of Johnny Chuck-Thornton W. Burgess</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/adventures-of-johnny-chuck-thornton-w-burgess--74437757</link><description><![CDATA["Adventures of Johnny Chuck" by Thornton W. Burgess invites listeners into the charming world of Johnny Chuck, a delightful character navigating the trials and tribulations of life in the great outdoors. This timeless tale reflects themes of friendship, adventure, and the beauty of nature, capturing the essence of the natural world and its inhabitants. As listeners journey alongside Johnny, they will find joy in the simplicity of his adventures and the lessons learned along the way. The story resonates today as it encourages a deeper appreciation for nature and the connections we share with all living beings, making it a perfect listen for those seeking inspiration and a sense of wonder in their everyday lives.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74437757</guid><pubDate>Mon, 24 Aug 2026 09:04:54 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/74437757/adventures_of_johnny_chuck_thornton_w_burgess.mp3" length="47756597" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Adventures of Johnny Chuck" by Thornton W. Burgess invites listeners into the charming world of Johnny Chuck, a delightful character navigating the trials and tribulations of life in the great outdoors. This timeless tale reflects themes of...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Adventures of Johnny Chuck" by Thornton W. Burgess invites listeners into the charming world of Johnny Chuck, a delightful character navigating the trials and tribulations of life in the great outdoors. This timeless tale reflects themes of friendship, adventure, and the beauty of nature, capturing the essence of the natural world and its inhabitants. As listeners journey alongside Johnny, they will find joy in the simplicity of his adventures and the lessons learned along the way. The story resonates today as it encourages a deeper appreciation for nature and the connections we share with all living beings, making it a perfect listen for those seeking inspiration and a sense of wonder in their everyday lives.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>5964</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Anglo-American Alliance A Serio-Comic Romance and Forecast of the Future-Gregory Casparian</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/anglo-american-alliance-a-serio-comic-romance-and-forecast-of-the-future-gregory-casparian--74384415</link><description><![CDATA["Anglo-American Alliance: A Serio-Comic Romance and Forecast of the Future" by Gregory Casparian offers a unique blend of humor and insight into the relationship between two great nations. Through its serio-comic lens, the book explores themes of alliance, cultural interplay, and the complexities of international relations, making it a captivating listen for those interested in the dynamics of cooperation and conflict. Its witty narrative not only entertains but also prompts reflections on the enduring nature of partnerships and the challenges they face. With its timeless themes and engaging style, this audiobook remains relevant, inviting listeners to consider the future of alliances in an ever-changing world.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74384415</guid><pubDate>Sun, 23 Aug 2026 09:04:42 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/74384415/anglo_american_alliance_a_serio_comic_romance_and_forecast_of_the_future_gregory_casparian.mp3" length="95170222" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Anglo-American Alliance: A Serio-Comic Romance and Forecast of the Future" by Gregory Casparian offers a unique blend of humor and insight into the relationship between two great nations. Through its serio-comic lens, the book explores themes of...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Anglo-American Alliance: A Serio-Comic Romance and Forecast of the Future" by Gregory Casparian offers a unique blend of humor and insight into the relationship between two great nations. Through its serio-comic lens, the book explores themes of alliance, cultural interplay, and the complexities of international relations, making it a captivating listen for those interested in the dynamics of cooperation and conflict. Its witty narrative not only entertains but also prompts reflections on the enduring nature of partnerships and the challenges they face. With its timeless themes and engaging style, this audiobook remains relevant, inviting listeners to consider the future of alliances in an ever-changing world.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>11884</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Orange-Yellow Diamond-J. S. Fletcher</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/orange-yellow-diamond-j-s-fletcher--74310903</link><description><![CDATA["Orange-Yellow Diamond" by J. S. Fletcher is a captivating tale that delves into the allure and intrigue surrounding a precious gem. This story explores themes of desire, ambition, and the lengths to which individuals will go to possess something of great value. The narrative resonates with timeless questions about human nature and the pursuit of wealth, making it a compelling listen for today's audience. Fletcher's masterful storytelling invites listeners to reflect on their own values and the consequences of their desires, ensuring that the themes remain relevant across generations. Dive into this classic and uncover the mysteries that lie within the world of the orange-yellow diamond.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74310903</guid><pubDate>Sat, 22 Aug 2026 09:04:21 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/74310903/6210_orange_yellow_diamond_j_s_fletcher.mp3" length="239440771" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Orange-Yellow Diamond" by J. S. Fletcher is a captivating tale that delves into the allure and intrigue surrounding a precious gem. This story explores themes of desire, ambition, and the lengths to which individuals will go to possess something of...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Orange-Yellow Diamond" by J. S. Fletcher is a captivating tale that delves into the allure and intrigue surrounding a precious gem. This story explores themes of desire, ambition, and the lengths to which individuals will go to possess something of great value. The narrative resonates with timeless questions about human nature and the pursuit of wealth, making it a compelling listen for today's audience. Fletcher's masterful storytelling invites listeners to reflect on their own values and the consequences of their desires, ensuring that the themes remain relevant across generations. Dive into this classic and uncover the mysteries that lie within the world of the orange-yellow diamond.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>29900</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Pierrot, Dog Of Belgium-Walter Alden Dyer</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/pierrot-dog-of-belgium-walter-alden-dyer--74208971</link><description><![CDATA["Pierrot, Dog Of Belgium" by Walter Alden Dyer is a touching tale that explores the bond between humans and their canine companions. This story captures the loyalty and bravery of a dog named Pierrot, reflecting themes of friendship, devotion, and the profound connections that can exist between species. The enduring nature of this narrative speaks to the timeless appreciation of animals in our lives, reminding us of their unwavering support and love. As listeners immerse themselves in Pierrot's journey, they will find themselves reflecting on the significance of companionship and the impact of loyalty in an ever-changing world.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74208971</guid><pubDate>Fri, 21 Aug 2026 09:05:52 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/74208971/12872_pierrot_dog_of_belgium_walter_alden_dyer.mp3" length="53133703" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Pierrot, Dog Of Belgium" by Walter Alden Dyer is a touching tale that explores the bond between humans and their canine companions. This story captures the loyalty and bravery of a dog named Pierrot, reflecting themes of friendship, devotion, and the...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Pierrot, Dog Of Belgium" by Walter Alden Dyer is a touching tale that explores the bond between humans and their canine companions. This story captures the loyalty and bravery of a dog named Pierrot, reflecting themes of friendship, devotion, and the profound connections that can exist between species. The enduring nature of this narrative speaks to the timeless appreciation of animals in our lives, reminding us of their unwavering support and love. As listeners immerse themselves in Pierrot's journey, they will find themselves reflecting on the significance of companionship and the impact of loyalty in an ever-changing world.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>6635</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Later Life-Louis Couperus</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/later-life-louis-couperus--74148347</link><description><![CDATA["Later Life" by Louis Couperus delves into the complexities of aging, exploring the nuanced emotions and existential reflections that accompany the later stages of life. This profound narrative captures the essence of human experience, touching on themes of nostalgia, introspection, and the passage of time. Its exploration of personal growth and the inevitable confrontation with mortality remains strikingly relevant today, inviting listeners to reflect on their own journeys and the universal truths of existence. Couperus's eloquent prose and insightful observations make this audiobook a timeless companion for anyone seeking to understand the intricacies of life and the enduring nature of the human spirit.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74148347</guid><pubDate>Thu, 20 Aug 2026 09:06:17 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/74148347/later_life_louis_couperus.mp3" length="233338167" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Later Life" by Louis Couperus delves into the complexities of aging, exploring the nuanced emotions and existential reflections that accompany the later stages of life. This profound narrative captures the essence of human experience, touching on...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Later Life" by Louis Couperus delves into the complexities of aging, exploring the nuanced emotions and existential reflections that accompany the later stages of life. This profound narrative captures the essence of human experience, touching on themes of nostalgia, introspection, and the passage of time. Its exploration of personal growth and the inevitable confrontation with mortality remains strikingly relevant today, inviting listeners to reflect on their own journeys and the universal truths of existence. Couperus's eloquent prose and insightful observations make this audiobook a timeless companion for anyone seeking to understand the intricacies of life and the enduring nature of the human spirit.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>29138</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Venus and Adonis</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/venus-and-adonis--74101468</link><description><![CDATA["Venus and Adonis" is a timeless narrative that explores the intense and often tumultuous relationship between the goddess Venus and the beautiful youth Adonis. This tale delves into themes of desire, beauty, and the complexities of love, showcasing how passion can lead to both ecstasy and heartache. The enduring nature of this story lies in its exploration of the human experience, reflecting the eternal struggle between attraction and the consequences of desire. As listeners immerse themselves in this classic work, they will find resonances with contemporary issues surrounding love and longing, making it a compelling listen for anyone intrigued by the depths of emotion and the nature of relationships.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74101468</guid><pubDate>Wed, 19 Aug 2026 09:06:10 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/74101468/venus_and_adonis.mp3" length="32230506" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Venus and Adonis" is a timeless narrative that explores the intense and often tumultuous relationship between the goddess Venus and the beautiful youth Adonis. This tale delves into themes of desire, beauty, and the complexities of love, showcasing...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Venus and Adonis" is a timeless narrative that explores the intense and often tumultuous relationship between the goddess Venus and the beautiful youth Adonis. This tale delves into themes of desire, beauty, and the complexities of love, showcasing how passion can lead to both ecstasy and heartache. The enduring nature of this story lies in its exploration of the human experience, reflecting the eternal struggle between attraction and the consequences of desire. As listeners immerse themselves in this classic work, they will find resonances with contemporary issues surrounding love and longing, making it a compelling listen for anyone intrigued by the depths of emotion and the nature of relationships.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>4025</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Woman of No Importance-Oscar Wilde</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/woman-of-no-importance-oscar-wilde--74052379</link><description><![CDATA["Woman of No Importance" by Oscar Wilde explores themes of identity, morality, and the complexities of social conventions. The narrative delves into the lives of its characters, revealing the intricate dance between personal desires and societal expectations. Wilde's wit and sharp observations make this work not only a reflection of his time but also a timeless commentary on the human condition. Its exploration of the roles and perceptions of women remains relevant today, inviting listeners to ponder the enduring struggles against societal norms. This audiobook is a celebration of Wilde's brilliance and a reminder of the power of authenticity in a world often defined by appearances.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74052379</guid><pubDate>Tue, 18 Aug 2026 09:06:26 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/74052379/woman_of_no_importance_oscar_wilde.mp3" length="59428014" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Woman of No Importance" by Oscar Wilde explores themes of identity, morality, and the complexities of social conventions. The narrative delves into the lives of its characters, revealing the intricate dance between personal desires and societal...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Woman of No Importance" by Oscar Wilde explores themes of identity, morality, and the complexities of social conventions. The narrative delves into the lives of its characters, revealing the intricate dance between personal desires and societal expectations. Wilde's wit and sharp observations make this work not only a reflection of his time but also a timeless commentary on the human condition. Its exploration of the roles and perceptions of women remains relevant today, inviting listeners to ponder the enduring struggles against societal norms. This audiobook is a celebration of Wilde's brilliance and a reminder of the power of authenticity in a world often defined by appearances.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>7421</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Man and Nature on the Broads-Arthur Henry Patterson</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/man-and-nature-on-the-broads-arthur-henry-patterson--74003520</link><description><![CDATA["Man and Nature on the Broads" by Arthur Henry Patterson explores the intricate relationship between humanity and the natural world within the unique ecosystem of the Broads. This work delves into the interplay of human activity and the environment, highlighting the delicate balance that must be maintained to preserve the beauty and biodiversity of this area. Its themes of coexistence and respect for nature are timeless, reminding listeners of the ongoing importance of environmental stewardship. As we face contemporary ecological challenges, Patterson's insights resonate more than ever, urging us to reflect on our place within the natural world and the responsibilities that come with it.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74003520</guid><pubDate>Mon, 17 Aug 2026 09:06:50 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/74003520/man_and_nature_on_the_broads_arthur_henry_patterson.mp3" length="188150480" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Man and Nature on the Broads" by Arthur Henry Patterson explores the intricate relationship between humanity and the natural world within the unique ecosystem of the Broads. This work delves into the interplay of human activity and the environment,...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Man and Nature on the Broads" by Arthur Henry Patterson explores the intricate relationship between humanity and the natural world within the unique ecosystem of the Broads. This work delves into the interplay of human activity and the environment, highlighting the delicate balance that must be maintained to preserve the beauty and biodiversity of this area. Its themes of coexistence and respect for nature are timeless, reminding listeners of the ongoing importance of environmental stewardship. As we face contemporary ecological challenges, Patterson's insights resonate more than ever, urging us to reflect on our place within the natural world and the responsibilities that come with it.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>23495</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Gargantua and Pantagruel, Book I-François Rabelais</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/gargantua-and-pantagruel-book-i-francois-rabelais--73951271</link><description><![CDATA[Gargantua and Pantagruel, Book I by François Rabelais is a foundational work of literature that explores themes of humanism, education, and the absurdity of life through the adventures of its titular giants. This satirical narrative not only entertains with its comedic elements and larger-than-life characters but also challenges societal norms and conventions, making it a timeless reflection on the human condition. The enduring nature of Rabelais's work lies in its ability to provoke thought about the balance between intellectual pursuit and the folly of human behavior. Listening to this classic now invites readers to reconsider the absurdities of their own lives and the world around them.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73951271</guid><pubDate>Sun, 16 Aug 2026 09:06:29 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/73951271/gargantua_and_pantagruel_book_i_franc_ois_rabelais.mp3" length="222104203" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Gargantua and Pantagruel, Book I by François Rabelais is a foundational work of literature that explores themes of humanism, education, and the absurdity of life through the adventures of its titular giants. This satirical narrative not only...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Gargantua and Pantagruel, Book I by François Rabelais is a foundational work of literature that explores themes of humanism, education, and the absurdity of life through the adventures of its titular giants. This satirical narrative not only entertains with its comedic elements and larger-than-life characters but also challenges societal norms and conventions, making it a timeless reflection on the human condition. The enduring nature of Rabelais's work lies in its ability to provoke thought about the balance between intellectual pursuit and the folly of human behavior. Listening to this classic now invites readers to reconsider the absurdities of their own lives and the world around them.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>27735</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Discourses on a Sober and Temperate Life-Luigi Cornaro</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/discourses-on-a-sober-and-temperate-life-luigi-cornaro--73896442</link><description><![CDATA["Discourses on a Sober and Temperate Life" by Luigi Cornaro presents a compelling exploration of the virtues of moderation and self-control. Cornaro shares his insights on the importance of living a balanced life, advocating for sobriety and temperance as keys to longevity and well-being. The themes of discipline and moderation resonate strongly today, as many grapple with excess and the pursuit of immediate gratification in a fast-paced world. This timeless discourse encourages listeners to reflect on their own habits and the impact of a measured lifestyle, making it a relevant and thought-provoking work for anyone seeking to cultivate a healthier, more fulfilling existence.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73896442</guid><pubDate>Sat, 15 Aug 2026 09:08:11 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/73896442/discourses_on_a_sober_and_temperate_life_luigi_cornaro.mp3" length="63237786" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Discourses on a Sober and Temperate Life" by Luigi Cornaro presents a compelling exploration of the virtues of moderation and self-control. Cornaro shares his insights on the importance of living a balanced life, advocating for sobriety and...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Discourses on a Sober and Temperate Life" by Luigi Cornaro presents a compelling exploration of the virtues of moderation and self-control. Cornaro shares his insights on the importance of living a balanced life, advocating for sobriety and temperance as keys to longevity and well-being. The themes of discipline and moderation resonate strongly today, as many grapple with excess and the pursuit of immediate gratification in a fast-paced world. This timeless discourse encourages listeners to reflect on their own habits and the impact of a measured lifestyle, making it a relevant and thought-provoking work for anyone seeking to cultivate a healthier, more fulfilling existence.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>7897</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Grand Cañon of the Colorado-John Muir</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/grand-canon-of-the-colorado-john-muir--73801531</link><description><![CDATA["Grand Cañon of the Colorado" by John Muir invites listeners to explore the majestic beauty and profound significance of one of nature's most awe-inspiring landscapes. Muir's reflections capture the grandeur of the Grand Canyon, emphasizing the importance of preserving such natural wonders for future generations. As environmental concerns continue to resonate today, Muir's passionate advocacy for nature reminds us of our responsibility to protect the planet's breathtaking landscapes. This timeless work not only showcases the splendor of the Grand Canyon but also serves as a call to recognize and cherish the natural world around us, making it a vital listen for anyone who appreciates the beauty of nature.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73801531</guid><pubDate>Thu, 13 Aug 2026 09:03:26 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/73801531/grand_can_on_of_the_colorado_john_muir.mp3" length="29574108" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Grand Cañon of the Colorado" by John Muir invites listeners to explore the majestic beauty and profound significance of one of nature's most awe-inspiring landscapes. Muir's reflections capture the grandeur of the Grand Canyon, emphasizing the...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Grand Cañon of the Colorado" by John Muir invites listeners to explore the majestic beauty and profound significance of one of nature's most awe-inspiring landscapes. Muir's reflections capture the grandeur of the Grand Canyon, emphasizing the importance of preserving such natural wonders for future generations. As environmental concerns continue to resonate today, Muir's passionate advocacy for nature reminds us of our responsibility to protect the planet's breathtaking landscapes. This timeless work not only showcases the splendor of the Grand Canyon but also serves as a call to recognize and cherish the natural world around us, making it a vital listen for anyone who appreciates the beauty of nature.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>3693</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>on</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Short Nonfiction Collection, Vol. 074-Various</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/short-nonfiction-collection-vol-074-various--73765130</link><description><![CDATA["Short Nonfiction Collection, Vol. 074-Various" presents a compelling array of essays that delve into the intricate relationship between humanity and nature. This collection invites listeners to reflect on the tensions that arise when societal norms clash with the natural world, exploring themes of authenticity, resistance, and the quest for understanding. The discussions resonate deeply in today's context, as we grapple with environmental challenges and the need for sustainable living. Each piece encourages critical thinking and a reevaluation of our values, making it a timeless exploration of what it means to exist against the grain of conventional thought.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73765130</guid><pubDate>Wed, 12 Aug 2026 09:03:27 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/73765130/short_nonfiction_collection_vol_074_various.mp3" length="231429201" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Short Nonfiction Collection, Vol. 074-Various" presents a compelling array of essays that delve into the intricate relationship between humanity and nature. This collection invites listeners to reflect on the tensions that arise when societal norms...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Short Nonfiction Collection, Vol. 074-Various" presents a compelling array of essays that delve into the intricate relationship between humanity and nature. This collection invites listeners to reflect on the tensions that arise when societal norms clash with the natural world, exploring themes of authenticity, resistance, and the quest for understanding. The discussions resonate deeply in today's context, as we grapple with environmental challenges and the need for sustainable living. Each piece encourages critical thinking and a reevaluation of our values, making it a timeless exploration of what it means to exist against the grain of conventional thought.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>28899</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>John Dough and the Cherub-L. Frank Baum</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/john-dough-and-the-cherub-l-frank-baum--73732178</link><description><![CDATA[John Dough and the Cherub by L. Frank Baum is a whimsical tale that invites listeners into a fantastical world where a dough boy and a cherub embark on a delightful adventure. This enchanting story explores themes of friendship, imagination, and the quest for identity, making it a timeless classic that resonates with audiences of all ages. The charm of Baum's storytelling lies in its ability to transport listeners to a realm where the impossible becomes possible, encouraging a sense of wonder and curiosity. Now, more than ever, the story's celebration of creativity and companionship serves as a reminder of the joy found in embracing the extraordinary amidst the ordinary.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73732178</guid><pubDate>Tue, 11 Aug 2026 09:03:48 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/73732178/john_dough_and_the_cherub_l_frank_baum.mp3" length="128589954" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>John Dough and the Cherub by L. Frank Baum is a whimsical tale that invites listeners into a fantastical world where a dough boy and a cherub embark on a delightful adventure. This enchanting story explores themes of friendship, imagination, and the...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[John Dough and the Cherub by L. Frank Baum is a whimsical tale that invites listeners into a fantastical world where a dough boy and a cherub embark on a delightful adventure. This enchanting story explores themes of friendship, imagination, and the quest for identity, making it a timeless classic that resonates with audiences of all ages. The charm of Baum's storytelling lies in its ability to transport listeners to a realm where the impossible becomes possible, encouraging a sense of wonder and curiosity. Now, more than ever, the story's celebration of creativity and companionship serves as a reminder of the joy found in embracing the extraordinary amidst the ordinary.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>16058</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Outcast-(William) Winwood Reade</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/outcast-william-winwood-reade--73707836</link><description><![CDATA["Outcast-(William) Winwood Reade" delves into the life and ideas of a man who faced societal rejection for his unconventional beliefs and pursuits. This powerful narrative explores themes of isolation, the struggle for acceptance, and the quest for truth, resonating with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider. Winwood Reade's journey highlights the timeless conflict between individual conviction and societal norms, making it a relevant listen for those grappling with their own identities in a world that often demands conformity. The enduring nature of this story invites listeners to reflect on the value of authenticity and the courage it takes to stand apart from the crowd.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73707836</guid><pubDate>Mon, 10 Aug 2026 09:03:52 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/73707836/outcast_william_winwood_reade.mp3" length="102116626" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Outcast-(William) Winwood Reade" delves into the life and ideas of a man who faced societal rejection for his unconventional beliefs and pursuits. This powerful narrative explores themes of isolation, the struggle for acceptance, and the quest for...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Outcast-(William) Winwood Reade" delves into the life and ideas of a man who faced societal rejection for his unconventional beliefs and pursuits. This powerful narrative explores themes of isolation, the struggle for acceptance, and the quest for truth, resonating with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider. Winwood Reade's journey highlights the timeless conflict between individual conviction and societal norms, making it a relevant listen for those grappling with their own identities in a world that often demands conformity. The enduring nature of this story invites listeners to reflect on the value of authenticity and the courage it takes to stand apart from the crowd.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>12752</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Road to Understanding-Eleanor H. Porter</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/road-to-understanding-eleanor-h-porter--73684890</link><description><![CDATA["Road to Understanding" by Eleanor H. Porter invites listeners on a journey of introspection and personal growth. This enduring tale explores the complexities of human relationships and the quest for deeper understanding among individuals. As themes of empathy and self-discovery resonate through the narrative, the story encourages us to reflect on our own connections and the importance of compassion in a rapidly changing world. Porter's insightful writing captures the essence of what it means to truly understand one another, making this audiobook a timeless exploration of the human experience that remains relevant today.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73684890</guid><pubDate>Sun, 09 Aug 2026 09:03:57 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/73684890/road_to_understanding_eleanor_h_porter.mp3" length="279733959" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Road to Understanding" by Eleanor H. Porter invites listeners on a journey of introspection and personal growth. This enduring tale explores the complexities of human relationships and the quest for deeper understanding among individuals. As themes...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Road to Understanding" by Eleanor H. Porter invites listeners on a journey of introspection and personal growth. This enduring tale explores the complexities of human relationships and the quest for deeper understanding among individuals. As themes of empathy and self-discovery resonate through the narrative, the story encourages us to reflect on our own connections and the importance of compassion in a rapidly changing world. Porter's insightful writing captures the essence of what it means to truly understand one another, making this audiobook a timeless exploration of the human experience that remains relevant today.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>34932</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Post Mortems Two Mere Mortals Medico-Historical Essays-Charles MacLaurin</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/post-mortems-two-mere-mortals-medico-historical-essays-charles-maclaurin--73659602</link><description><![CDATA["Post Mortems: Two Mere Mortals" by Charles MacLaurin delves into the intricate interplay between medicine and history through a collection of thought-provoking essays. This work invites listeners to reflect on the evolution of medical practices and their profound impact on society, highlighting the enduring relevance of these themes in our contemporary world. MacLaurin's exploration of medico-historical narratives encourages a deeper understanding of human mortality and the ethical dimensions of medical intervention.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73659602</guid><pubDate>Sat, 08 Aug 2026 09:42:05 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/73659602/post_mortems_two_mere_mortals_medico_historical_essays_charles_maclaurin.mp3" length="190863806" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Post Mortems: Two Mere Mortals" by Charles MacLaurin delves into the intricate interplay between medicine and history through a collection of thought-provoking essays. This work invites listeners to reflect on the evolution of medical practices and...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Post Mortems: Two Mere Mortals" by Charles MacLaurin delves into the intricate interplay between medicine and history through a collection of thought-provoking essays. This work invites listeners to reflect on the evolution of medical practices and their profound impact on society, highlighting the enduring relevance of these themes in our contemporary world. MacLaurin's exploration of medico-historical narratives encourages a deeper understanding of human mortality and the ethical dimensions of medical intervention.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>23834</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious System of Professed Christians-William Wilberforce</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-practical-view-of-the-prevailing-religious-system-of-professed-christians-william-wilberforce--73635325</link><description><![CDATA[William Wilberforce's "A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious System of Professed Christians" critically examines the beliefs and practices of contemporary Christianity in his time. This thought-provoking work challenges readers to reflect on the authenticity of their faith and the implications of their religious systems. It invites a deeper understanding of the moral and ethical responsibilities that accompany professed beliefs, making it a timeless exploration of faith's role in personal and societal transformation. As the themes of sincerity, morality, and the true essence of belief continue to resonate today, this audiobook serves as a vital reminder of the importance of genuine faith in navigating the complexities of modern life.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73635325</guid><pubDate>Fri, 07 Aug 2026 19:56:20 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/73635325/a_practical_view_of_the_prevailing_religious_system_of_professed_christians_william_wilberforce.mp3" length="261922446" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>William Wilberforce's "A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious System of Professed Christians" critically examines the beliefs and practices of contemporary Christianity in his time. This thought-provoking work challenges readers to reflect on...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[William Wilberforce's "A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious System of Professed Christians" critically examines the beliefs and practices of contemporary Christianity in his time. This thought-provoking work challenges readers to reflect on the authenticity of their faith and the implications of their religious systems. It invites a deeper understanding of the moral and ethical responsibilities that accompany professed beliefs, making it a timeless exploration of faith's role in personal and societal transformation. As the themes of sincerity, morality, and the true essence of belief continue to resonate today, this audiobook serves as a vital reminder of the importance of genuine faith in navigating the complexities of modern life.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>32708</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Black Beauty (version 3 Dramatic Reading)-Anna Sewell</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/black-beauty-version-3-dramatic-reading-anna-sewell--73591911</link><description><![CDATA["Black Beauty" is a powerful narrative told from the perspective of a horse, chronicling his life experiences and the treatment he endures at the hands of various owners. This dramatic reading brings to life Anna Sewell's poignant exploration of compassion, empathy, and the ethical treatment of animals, themes that resonate deeply with contemporary audiences. The story's enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke a sense of empathy and raise awareness about the plight of those who cannot speak for themselves. As listeners engage with Black Beauty's journey, they are reminded of the importance of kindness and respect for all living beings, making this classic a timeless reflection on humanity's relationship with nature.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73591911</guid><pubDate>Fri, 07 Aug 2026 03:25:04 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/73591911/black_beauty_version_3_dramatic_reading_anna_sewell.mp3" length="156762640" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Black Beauty" is a powerful narrative told from the perspective of a horse, chronicling his life experiences and the treatment he endures at the hands of various owners. This dramatic reading brings to life Anna Sewell's poignant exploration of...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Black Beauty" is a powerful narrative told from the perspective of a horse, chronicling his life experiences and the treatment he endures at the hands of various owners. This dramatic reading brings to life Anna Sewell's poignant exploration of compassion, empathy, and the ethical treatment of animals, themes that resonate deeply with contemporary audiences. The story's enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke a sense of empathy and raise awareness about the plight of those who cannot speak for themselves. As listeners engage with Black Beauty's journey, they are reminded of the importance of kindness and respect for all living beings, making this classic a timeless reflection on humanity's relationship with nature.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>19576</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Little Brother to the Bear-William J. Long</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/little-brother-to-the-bear-william-j-long--73555269</link><description><![CDATA["Little Brother to the Bear" by William J. Long invites listeners into a world where nature and its creatures are vividly brought to life through the lens of a young boy's experiences. This timeless tale explores the bond between humans and the wild, highlighting themes of curiosity, innocence, and the profound lessons that nature imparts. Long's rich descriptions and heartfelt observations resonate with anyone who has ever felt a connection to the natural world, making it a poignant reminder of our place within it. As we navigate an increasingly artificial landscape, this story serves as a powerful call to reconnect with the simplicity and beauty of the wilderness that surrounds us.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73555269</guid><pubDate>Thu, 06 Aug 2026 12:05:59 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/73555269/little_brother_to_the_bear_william_j_long.mp3" length="124879586" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Little Brother to the Bear" by William J. Long invites listeners into a world where nature and its creatures are vividly brought to life through the lens of a young boy's experiences. This timeless tale explores the bond between humans and the wild,...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Little Brother to the Bear" by William J. Long invites listeners into a world where nature and its creatures are vividly brought to life through the lens of a young boy's experiences. This timeless tale explores the bond between humans and the wild, highlighting themes of curiosity, innocence, and the profound lessons that nature imparts. Long's rich descriptions and heartfelt observations resonate with anyone who has ever felt a connection to the natural world, making it a poignant reminder of our place within it. As we navigate an increasingly artificial landscape, this story serves as a powerful call to reconnect with the simplicity and beauty of the wilderness that surrounds us.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>15594</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Constructive Conscious Control of the Individual-F. Matthias Alexander</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/constructive-conscious-control-of-the-individual-f-matthias-alexander--73518682</link><description><![CDATA["Constructive Conscious Control of the Individual" by F. Matthias Alexander invites listeners to explore the profound impact of conscious control over one's own actions and thoughts. This work emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and intentionality in personal development, offering insights that remain relevant in today's fast-paced world. As individuals navigate the complexities of modern life, Alexander's principles encourage a return to mindful living and self-regulation, fostering a deeper connection to oneself. The enduring nature of this book lies in its call for individuals to reclaim their autonomy and cultivate a harmonious relationship with their own bodies and minds.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73518682</guid><pubDate>Wed, 05 Aug 2026 22:11:43 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/73518682/constructive_conscious_control_of_the_individual_f_matthias_alexander.mp3" length="275917438" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Constructive Conscious Control of the Individual" by F. Matthias Alexander invites listeners to explore the profound impact of conscious control over one's own actions and thoughts. This work emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Constructive Conscious Control of the Individual" by F. Matthias Alexander invites listeners to explore the profound impact of conscious control over one's own actions and thoughts. This work emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and intentionality in personal development, offering insights that remain relevant in today's fast-paced world. As individuals navigate the complexities of modern life, Alexander's principles encourage a return to mindful living and self-regulation, fostering a deeper connection to oneself. The enduring nature of this book lies in its call for individuals to reclaim their autonomy and cultivate a harmonious relationship with their own bodies and minds.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>34455</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>018 - Chapter 16</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/018-chapter-16--70107233</link><description><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70107233</guid><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 18:59:04 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70107233/againstthegrain_18_huysmans_64kb.mp3" length="10560944" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/d8e3c166-fe6c-49df-8b76-cd47176d7d79/d8e3c166-fe6c-49df-8b76-cd47176d7d79.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/d8e3c166-fe6c-49df-8b76-cd47176d7d79/d8e3c166-fe6c-49df-8b76-cd47176d7d79.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/d8e3c166-fe6c-49df-8b76-cd47176d7d79/d8e3c166-fe6c-49df-8b76-cd47176d7d79.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1320</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>absurdity,aesthete,aestheticism,artifice,decadence,isolation,literature,masterpiece,synaesthesia,translation</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>017 - Chapter 15</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/017-chapter-15--70107232</link><description><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70107232</guid><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 18:59:02 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70107232/againstthegrain_17_huysmans_64kb.mp3" length="13932830" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/d4ccd9fb-0395-45a4-83b7-aa90a8f4e0bf/d4ccd9fb-0395-45a4-83b7-aa90a8f4e0bf.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/d4ccd9fb-0395-45a4-83b7-aa90a8f4e0bf/d4ccd9fb-0395-45a4-83b7-aa90a8f4e0bf.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/d4ccd9fb-0395-45a4-83b7-aa90a8f4e0bf/d4ccd9fb-0395-45a4-83b7-aa90a8f4e0bf.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1742</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>absurdity,aesthete,aestheticism,artifice,decadence,isolation,literature,masterpiece,synaesthesia,translation</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>016 - Chapter 14 part two</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/016-chapter-14-part-two--70107231</link><description><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70107231</guid><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 18:58:59 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70107231/againstthegrain_16_huysmans_64kb.mp3" length="15826195" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/c846d163-6f2c-46a8-9974-5ab8f0806bb5/c846d163-6f2c-46a8-9974-5ab8f0806bb5.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/c846d163-6f2c-46a8-9974-5ab8f0806bb5/c846d163-6f2c-46a8-9974-5ab8f0806bb5.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/c846d163-6f2c-46a8-9974-5ab8f0806bb5/c846d163-6f2c-46a8-9974-5ab8f0806bb5.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1979</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>absurdity,aesthete,aestheticism,artifice,decadence,isolation,literature,masterpiece,synaesthesia,translation</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>015 - Chapter 14 part one</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/015-chapter-14-part-one--70107229</link><description><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70107229</guid><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 18:58:56 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70107229/againstthegrain_15_huysmans_64kb.mp3" length="15343243" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/3f625a7e-81c5-49d9-b5c6-c78364edf215/3f625a7e-81c5-49d9-b5c6-c78364edf215.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/3f625a7e-81c5-49d9-b5c6-c78364edf215/3f625a7e-81c5-49d9-b5c6-c78364edf215.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/3f625a7e-81c5-49d9-b5c6-c78364edf215/3f625a7e-81c5-49d9-b5c6-c78364edf215.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1918</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>absurdity,aesthete,aestheticism,artifice,decadence,isolation,literature,masterpiece,synaesthesia,translation</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>014 - Chapter 13</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/014-chapter-13--70107228</link><description><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70107228</guid><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 18:58:52 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70107228/againstthegrain_14_huysmans_64kb.mp3" length="15430796" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/6cbbe3bc-69c5-42e8-9e08-455f7f195db1/6cbbe3bc-69c5-42e8-9e08-455f7f195db1.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/6cbbe3bc-69c5-42e8-9e08-455f7f195db1/6cbbe3bc-69c5-42e8-9e08-455f7f195db1.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/6cbbe3bc-69c5-42e8-9e08-455f7f195db1/6cbbe3bc-69c5-42e8-9e08-455f7f195db1.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1929</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>absurdity,aesthete,aestheticism,artifice,decadence,isolation,literature,masterpiece,synaesthesia,translation</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>013 - Chapter 12 part two</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/013-chapter-12-part-two--70107226</link><description><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70107226</guid><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 18:58:50 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70107226/againstthegrain_13_huysmans_64kb.mp3" length="16943609" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/dc33211d-5d7a-4691-b20c-2e320b72f7fb/dc33211d-5d7a-4691-b20c-2e320b72f7fb.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/dc33211d-5d7a-4691-b20c-2e320b72f7fb/dc33211d-5d7a-4691-b20c-2e320b72f7fb.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/dc33211d-5d7a-4691-b20c-2e320b72f7fb/dc33211d-5d7a-4691-b20c-2e320b72f7fb.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2118</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>absurdity,aesthete,aestheticism,artifice,decadence,isolation,literature,masterpiece,synaesthesia,translation</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>012 - Chapter 12 part one</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/012-chapter-12-part-one--70107225</link><description><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70107225</guid><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 18:58:45 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70107225/againstthegrain_12_huysmans_64kb.mp3" length="14065124" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/0f1373f3-d4eb-4c29-8a82-5a77004a31ee/0f1373f3-d4eb-4c29-8a82-5a77004a31ee.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/0f1373f3-d4eb-4c29-8a82-5a77004a31ee/0f1373f3-d4eb-4c29-8a82-5a77004a31ee.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/0f1373f3-d4eb-4c29-8a82-5a77004a31ee/0f1373f3-d4eb-4c29-8a82-5a77004a31ee.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1759</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>absurdity,aesthete,aestheticism,artifice,decadence,isolation,literature,masterpiece,synaesthesia,translation</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>011 - Chapter 11</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/011-chapter-11--70107223</link><description><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70107223</guid><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 18:58:42 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70107223/againstthegrain_11_huysmans_64kb.mp3" length="19596386" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/32c7a05a-5fc3-44c6-9724-86f122ef698b/32c7a05a-5fc3-44c6-9724-86f122ef698b.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/32c7a05a-5fc3-44c6-9724-86f122ef698b/32c7a05a-5fc3-44c6-9724-86f122ef698b.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/32c7a05a-5fc3-44c6-9724-86f122ef698b/32c7a05a-5fc3-44c6-9724-86f122ef698b.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2450</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>absurdity,aesthete,aestheticism,artifice,decadence,isolation,literature,masterpiece,synaesthesia,translation</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>010 - Chapter 10</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/010-chapter-10--70107222</link><description><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70107222</guid><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 18:58:38 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70107222/againstthegrain_10_huysmans_64kb.mp3" length="16350724" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/4612eab6-bb32-43b3-ba08-f23711feca23/4612eab6-bb32-43b3-ba08-f23711feca23.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/4612eab6-bb32-43b3-ba08-f23711feca23/4612eab6-bb32-43b3-ba08-f23711feca23.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/4612eab6-bb32-43b3-ba08-f23711feca23/4612eab6-bb32-43b3-ba08-f23711feca23.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2044</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>absurdity,aesthete,aestheticism,artifice,decadence,isolation,literature,masterpiece,synaesthesia,translation</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>009 - Chapter 9</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/009-chapter-9--70107221</link><description><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70107221</guid><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 18:58:35 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70107221/againstthegrain_09_huysmans_64kb.mp3" length="12128708" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/1fb1c7eb-b566-4c64-ad17-e730a40c3f3b/1fb1c7eb-b566-4c64-ad17-e730a40c3f3b.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/1fb1c7eb-b566-4c64-ad17-e730a40c3f3b/1fb1c7eb-b566-4c64-ad17-e730a40c3f3b.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/1fb1c7eb-b566-4c64-ad17-e730a40c3f3b/1fb1c7eb-b566-4c64-ad17-e730a40c3f3b.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1516</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>absurdity,aesthete,aestheticism,artifice,decadence,isolation,literature,masterpiece,synaesthesia,translation</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>008 - Chapter 8</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/008-chapter-8--70107220</link><description><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70107220</guid><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 18:58:32 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70107220/againstthegrain_08_huysmans_64kb.mp3" length="16172463" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2022</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>absurdity,aesthete,aestheticism,artifice,decadence,isolation,literature,masterpiece,synaesthesia,translation</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>007 - Chapter 7</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/007-chapter-7--70107219</link><description><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70107219</guid><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 18:58:29 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70107219/againstthegrain_07_huysmans_64kb.mp3" length="16362635" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2046</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>absurdity,aesthete,aestheticism,artifice,decadence,isolation,literature,masterpiece,synaesthesia,translation</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>006 - Chapter 6</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/006-chapter-6--70107218</link><description><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70107218</guid><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 18:58:26 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70107218/againstthegrain_06_huysmans_64kb.mp3" length="20129701" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2517</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>absurdity,aesthete,aestheticism,artifice,decadence,isolation,literature,masterpiece,synaesthesia,translation</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>005 - Chapter 5</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/005-chapter-5--70107216</link><description><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70107216</guid><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 18:58:22 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70107216/againstthegrain_05_huysmans_64kb.mp3" length="13583624" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1698</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>absurdity,aesthete,aestheticism,artifice,decadence,isolation,literature,masterpiece,synaesthesia,translation</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>004 - Chapter 4</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/004-chapter-4--70107214</link><description><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70107214</guid><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 18:58:19 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70107214/againstthegrain_04_huysmans_64kb.mp3" length="18056623" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2257</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>absurdity,aesthete,aestheticism,artifice,decadence,isolation,literature,masterpiece,synaesthesia,translation</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>003 - Chapter 3</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/003-chapter-3--70107212</link><description><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70107212</guid><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 18:58:15 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70107212/againstthegrain_03_huysmans_64kb.mp3" length="10872950" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1359</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>absurdity,aesthete,aestheticism,artifice,decadence,isolation,literature,masterpiece,synaesthesia,translation</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>002 - Chapter 2</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/002-chapter-2--70107211</link><description><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70107211</guid><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 18:58:13 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70107211/againstthegrain_02_huysmans_64kb.mp3" length="9770373" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1222</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>absurdity,aesthete,aestheticism,artifice,decadence,isolation,literature,masterpiece,synaesthesia,translation</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>001 - Chapter 1</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/001-chapter-1--70107209</link><description><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70107209</guid><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 18:58:11 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70107209/againstthegrain_01_huysmans_64kb.mp3" length="11009831" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Joris-Karl Huysmans</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of his eccentric theories in a delightfully absurd fifth chapter. This is a novel best enjoyed in small doses, as John Howards translation can be a bit cumbersome. For those who dare to embrace the experience, relish the captivating tales of chapters 5, 8, 9, and 11, featuring a jewel-encrusted tortoise, an audacious lady acrobat, and nightmarish orchids that provoke the lament, “All is Syphilis.” While some chapters may be skipped without regret, what remains is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of exquisite decadence. (Summary by Martin Geeson)]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1377</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>absurdity,aesthete,aestheticism,artifice,decadence,isolation,literature,masterpiece,synaesthesia,translation</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/43227dd81cd6027044e49b5e311f7879.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item></channel></rss>
