A podcast tribute to John Swenson 033122
What's on your mind today? Day 34.
I didn’t go to bed with my husband last night because I was on our cushy couch engrossed in reading New Atlantis by John Swenson. I didn’t know John personally, but my father did. John recently passed on, and as my dad says, “Now he’s free.” He was an incredible journalist, writer, and lover of good music. As you can tell by the condition of his book in my picture, I’ve read this more than once. I highly recommend it. You can listen to me reading the first few paragraphs here. Here’s to John.
This book means so much to me because of my love for New Orleans and its people, music, musicians, food, fests, booziness, and history. I have been to the Crescent City about a dozen times, and it holds a very special place in my heart. But more on that later.
I really wish I could go to Jazz Fest this year, just the first Friday. Opening day has always been my favorite. Maybe next year?
From sex and family drama to work woes and hangovers, what's on your mind today? Welcome to a space to reflect light on three things, and please share in comments.
Cheers,
Jess
I love hearing you read John's words. Beautifully done. New Atlantis is such a good book, and John was such a knowledgable, skillful writer who could write about anything, and anyone, from Billy Ray Cyrus to The Kinks to Thelonious Monk... and do it with grace and perspective. John left the world a better place, indeed. And he sure knew his way around JazzFest and the Crescent City. Very nice that you paid tribute to John.
Can’t wait to get back to New Orleans with you Mrs Snugs!❤️❤️❤️