121 Comments
⭠ Return to thread

Thanks for such a thorough explanation of what went down with OTM and WNYC. Although I had no inside information -- until now -- the scenario you've delineated was pretty much what I suspected. As I wrote to OTM at the time, "You can't fire the sharpest blade in OTM's tool box and expect the show to remain remotely as good," and that's exactly what happened. Where I used to tune in every week with quasi-religious fervor, I now rarely listen. The world and our country seem to be plummeting into the abyss, and absent your voice screaming in such scalding, perfectly-composed, it's-funny-but-I-just-can't-laugh outrage ... we'll, fuck it -- I'd rather listen to a ball game. You were the best WNYC and NPR had to offer, and I'm very sorry that TBP didn't generate enough $ to keep going -- but hey, if it was driving you into the grave, then something had to give. I look forward to reading what you'll write in the future. Thanks for all these years of such smart, slashing, entertaining commentary and analysis -- and especially for that wonderful episode when you went down to Nashville to write a country song ... and pulled it off. That one, I'll never forget. Wishing you a return to good health, and all the best!

Expand full comment

Thanks, man. I'll keep on slashing. Here's hoping I don't damage the drapes.

Expand full comment

Michael,

Before going to bed last night, I saw your extraordinarily generous letter about my work. As they say, I have "no words" to convey how touching your sentiments are.

I mean, I don't think there are. I wanted to reread your note in the clear light of day, and cannot locate it. I don't know what platform it was on. I certainly didn't delete it, but it seems to have vanished. Could you send me a copy? BobosphereATgmailDOTcom

Cheers

Expand full comment

Bob -- it was a Twitter DM. Apparently it vanished into the ether for some confounding algorithmic reason, so I'll re-send.

Expand full comment