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Every book Ed Yong recommended on podcasts
Ed Yong appeared on The Book Review podcast to discuss his writing and reporting process, offering listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of his work 'I Contain Multitudes'. During the discussion, Yong explored the literary and historical references that shaped his book, connecting his themes to classic works. He noted that the central phrase of his book was drawn from Walt Whitman's famous poetry collection, 'Leaves of Grass'. Additionally, Yong examined the conclusion of Charles Darwin's foundational scientific text, 'On the Origin of Species', specifically highlighting Darwin's evocative imagery of a tangled bank to explain the underlying literary inspiration behind his own book's subtitle. Through these discussions, Yong provided insight into the rich tapestry of scientific literature and poetry that informed his reporting and writing journey.
Books recommended by Ed Yong
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I Contain Multitudes
I Contain Multitudes: The Microbes Within Us and a Grander View of Life by Ed Yong is a popular science book that explores the complex, symbiotic relationships between animals and the vast microbial communities living inside them.
Discussed“and when I was reporting for this book I was staying in this hotel and I picked up the phone to make a call”
Where to get it
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Leaves of Grass
Walt Whitman's groundbreaking poetry collection Leaves of Grass celebrates nature, the human body, and the democratic spirit through a revolutionary free-verse style.
Discussed“it's a quote from Leaves of Grass”
Where to get it
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On the Origin of Species
On the Origin of Species by Charles Darwin is the foundational scientific text establishing the theory of evolution by natural selection and detailing its profound impacts on modern biology and human thought.
Discussed“so in On the Origin of Species Darwin ended with this wonderful thing about um a tangled bank”
Where to get it
Books Ed Yong wrote
Appearances
| Episode | Podcast | Date | Books |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inside The New York Times Book Review: ‘I Contain Multitudes’ | The Book Review | 2024-07-18 | 3 |