Satan! In his many surprising manifestations, all around us.
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"Tartini's Dream" by Louis-Léopold Boilly
Note: The internet version of this episode contains un-beeped curse words. BEEPED VERSION.
Prologue
Host Ira Glass plays recordings from the Satanic Prayer Line, and speaks to the line’s creator, Chris Allert. (8 1/2 minutes)
Record Deal with the Devil
New Yorker staff writer Kelefa Sanneh tells the story of exorcist Bob Larson’s trip into the world of heavy metal. (20 minutes)
Bob Guccione Jr., interviewed in this story, runs the website Wonderlust.
Details of the Devil
Religion professor Elaine Pagels explains the roots and evolution of Satan in religious texts. She is the author of "The Origin of Satan." (9 minutes)
Song:
The Devil You Know
Writer Gary Shteyngart presents a fictional diary of two Russian men — and a story of the special malevolence that can grow from an intimate situation. A portion of the story is read by actor Josh Gad. Gary Shteyngart’s most recent book is "Lake Success.” (18 minutes)
Related
Act Four: When Businesses Act Like Humans
Act Two
Act One: 200 Dog Night
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The startling rise of the number of people on disability in America.