All Things Grow

A Christmas Memory

Scotto discusses Truman Capote's "A Christmas Memory," a short story you can find in Breakfast at Tiffany's. Plus: fruitcake, Santa Claus, Christmas trees, whiskey, nostalgia, family, warmth, money, ornaments, childhood, and a bunch of other stuff I cannot think of right now.

The Gospel According to John

It's the fall of 2008 and a 21-year-old Scotto is trying to live on campus again. He's learning about ancient Roman art, Toni Morrison, and the Gospel According to John, all while failing socially and falling confusedly in love with an older woman. It's a time of important realizations, intense reading, and inspiration. Young Scotto is compelled by the very simple idea that the story of Jesus Christ was authored by real people who had rhetorical intentions. It's the first time he's ever read at length from the bible, a book that influenced his entire childhood, and the experience is formative, thanks to the guidance of a gifted college professor.

All Things Grow

Scotto records while pacing in his office and reading: James Brown's Apology to the Young Addict, old letters from Mrs. Scotto, an anonymously authored book called Time Heals All Wounds, and notes from Old Good Bird. Plus: 28 push-ups, The Serenity Prayer, "Semi-Charmed Kind of Life," Don Hertzfeldt, love, Sufjan Stevens, weightlifting, friendship, wisdom, stick figures, alcoholism, Tetris, chess, fat arms, office decorating, flowers, awards, and a whole lot of panting. "God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference." Amen! Yeah!

Raw Wind

Scotto reacts to a Louise Glück poem. This episode includes reflections on insomnia, healing, aging, stimming, autism, alcoholism, family, and much more. Happy Thanksgiving!

39

It's the day after Scotto's 39th birthday.