Episodes

  • The Battle of the Books - The Beasts' confession (1732)

    The Battle of the Books - The Beasts' confession (1732)
    Mar 28 2026
    In which various beasts, taking on human-like faculties of speech and conscience, offer earnest confessions before their sovereign, each revealing peculiar virtues and follies in a manner that mirrors the complexities of human character. Through this allegorical assembly, a gentle critique unfolds of the vanity, pretence, and self-justifications commonly found within mankind’s own social and moral discourse.
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    12 mins
  • The Battle of the Books - The second prayer was written NOV. 6, 1727.

    The Battle of the Books - The second prayer was written NOV. 6, 1727.
    Mar 26 2026
    In which a humble and devout supplication is offered, beseeching divine mercy and strength for a suffering soul enduring prolonged affliction. The prayer gently beseeches patience, forgiveness, and the grace to find solace in faith amid the trials of mortality, whilst also seeking comfort for those who mourn.
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    4 mins
  • The Battle of the Books - The first he wrote OCT. 17, 1727

    The Battle of the Books - The first he wrote OCT. 17, 1727
    Mar 24 2026
    In which a deeply devout prayer is offered for the restoration and comfort of a cherished individual enduring a long and fragile illness, beseeching divine mercy, patience, and strength for both the sufferer and those who hold her dear. The plea reflects a gentle resignation to the mysteries of Providence, extolling virtues and seeking solace in the hope of eternal peace beyond worldly affliction.
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    4 mins
  • The Battle of the Books - To Stella

    The Battle of the Books - To Stella
    Mar 22 2026
    In which a devoted friend extols the virtues of Stella, a lady whose wit, honour, and courage transcend the common prejudices of her sex, illustrating true nobility of mind with a gentle yet firm voice. We are also tenderly given a glimpse into the intimate care and profound affection shared during a time of illness, underscoring the sincerity of friendship beyond mere words.
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    7 mins
  • The Battle of the Books - Stella’s Birthday, March 13, 1726

    The Battle of the Books - Stella’s Birthday, March 13, 1726
    Mar 20 2026
    In which a reflective and tender birthday meditation gently unfolds, extolling the enduring comfort found in a life well lived and the virtue that nourishes the mind beyond bodily decline. The verses contemplate the stoic courage of a beloved friend, inviting solace in past deeds of kindness and the hope of a tranquil future state.
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    4 mins
  • The Battle of the Books - Stella’s Birthday, 1724

    The Battle of the Books - Stella’s Birthday, 1724
    Mar 18 2026
    In which the speaker, reflecting with gentle melancholy on the passage of time, contemplates the fading of youthful beauty and poetic inspiration as he celebrates a beloved lady’s birthday with heartfelt prose rather than rhyme. Despite acknowledging nature’s inevitable changes, he affirms the enduring virtues of honour, wit, and friendship, which remain untouched by age or outward appearance.
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    3 mins
  • The Battle of the Books - Stella’s Birthday

    The Battle of the Books - Stella’s Birthday
    Mar 16 2026
    In which a devoted poet struggles mightily to compose an annual ode in honour of Stella’s birthday, wrestling with his diminished inspiration and the fear of public reproach. He seeks Apollo’s divine counsel, who prescribes a ritual involving a long-hidden bottle of wine and the assistance of faithful friends to rekindle the muse’s favour and prompt the verses Stella deserves.
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    5 mins
  • The Battle of the Books - Stella’s Birthday, 1720.

    The Battle of the Books - Stella’s Birthday, 1720.
    Mar 14 2026
    In which a charming ode is offered to Stella’s enduring allure, lauding her wit, sense, and hospitality that outshine mere youthful beauty or superficial appearance. The poem gently mocks rival establishments and idle gossip, suggesting that true charm and substance will always draw the discerning visitor.
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    3 mins