Hope is Kindled
A podcast devoted to the way stories shape us, sharpen us, and sometimes… save us.
Hope is Kindled is a literary podcast that explores classic and powerful works of literature through the lens of self-discovery, moral reflection, and enduring hope. Each episode delves into a single book, essay, or story, examining its themes, characters, and psychological depth, and connects it to timeless questions about the human condition.
What makes the podcast unique is its blend of literary criticism and warmth. It uses biographical, psychological, and historical criticism, along with personal reflection and cultural commentary—including references to Doctor Who, The Muppets, and classic film.
Please let us know what you think of our episodes, if you have any ideas for future episodes or to share your experiences looking searching for hope in the literary world.
Hope is Kindled
On the Road
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In this vibrant episode of Hope is Kindled, we hit the highway with Jack Kerouac’s On the Road, exploring the restless spirit of the Beat Generation. We reflect on themes of friendship, disillusionment, counterculture, and the eternal search for meaning. With personal memories, literary comparisons to Dorian Gray, and a tribute to San Francisco’s role in shaping the era, this episode celebrates the wild freedom of youth—and the hope we find even in the most unexpected detours.
