Something Old, Something New, Something Red, White and Blue with Dr. Matthew Mehan

Jamison welcomes Dr. Matthew Mehan back to the podcast to discusses his landmark work, The American Book of Fables, an illustrated heirloom collection released to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary,. Dr. Mehan explores his mission to "restore the American imagination" by restocking the cultural pantry with moral images that foster virtue and wisdom in a free people. Organized into thirteen chapters representing distinct American regions—from the Everglades to the Great Lakes—the book weaves together nursery rhymes, fables, and primary sources that explain and elaborate on the core principles of the Declaration of Independence.

The conversation highlights how these stories, featuring American wildlife such as bison and beavers instead of traditional Aesopic lions, serve as "moral puzzles" designed to shape the hearts and minds of "littles, middles, and bigs." Dr. Mehan emphasizes that civic rebuilding is a multi-generational endeavor rooted in patriotism, gratitude, and the cultivation of "gentle manliness and womanliness." Listeners will gain insight into the intensive research and artistic collaboration required to produce the book's stunning oil paintings and watercolors,. Ultimately, this episode showcases how fables offer a profound avenue for training witty, wise citizens prepared for a life of service.