Troubadours and Raconteurs with E.W. Conundrum Demure - Conversation, Essays, Poetry & Music.

Episode 599 Featuring Serf William - Fiddle Player, Educator, Chicken Coop Builder & Our Resident Historian

·59 min·5 clips

Surf William explains why fascists always have the advantage in political fights because they operate without dignity.

Episode 599 of Troubadours and Raconteurs features a conversation between host E.W. Conundrum Demure and regular guest Surf William, a fiddler, educator, and resident historian. The episode opens with introductions and sets the context: it is November 7th, just after a Republican election sweep termed the 'red wave'. Surf William shares his emotional distress over the election results, describing physical symptoms and his approach as a teacher creating a safe classroom space. The host challenges this 'softness' as a weakness, prompting Surf William to argue that fighting fascism requires maintaining humanity, giving fascists an advantage because they operate without dignity. They dissect the election loss, with Surf William analyzing Kamala Harris's campaign as dignified and professional compared to Trump's incoherent one, concluding that deep-seated misogyny and racism in American culture prevented a woman from winning. The discussion covers bro mentality, patriarchy embraced by women, and the Republican exploitation of trans issues. Surf William posits that politics is emotional, driven by fear, which Republicans expertly harness. He recalls John McCain correcting a voter's misinformation about Barack Obama as an example of responsible leadership. Looking forward, Surf William outlines how Democrats might resist Republican control through state governments, court challenges, and educating the public, though he acknowledges Republican gains at state levels. He critiques Trump's mass deportation promise as logistically unrealistic but effective red meat for his base. The conversation turns to oligarchs like Elon Musk, authoritarian leanings, and religion's role. Surf William reductionistically argues that religious belief in impossible thinking makes people susceptible to seeing Trump as a savior, citing contradictions like Catholics voting for a rapist over a pro-choice candidate. They discuss the Constitution, with Surf William criticizing Second Amendment proponents for ignoring the 'well-regulated militia' clause and advocating for its removal, while supporting freedom of religion if it doesn't harm others. The host suggests removing freedom of religion entirely, promoting humanism instead. Surf William critiques the right's interpretation of freedom of speech as irresponsible, contrasting it with the spirit of open discourse. They blame consumerism, religion, and education focused on testing over critical thinking for societal failures. Surf William names politicians he respects, like Governor Shapiro and Bernie Sanders, and defends Biden's presidency and decision to step down for Kamala Harris. He predicts Trump's second term will involve criminality and chaos, hoping for roadblocks. The episode concludes with mutual encouragement to rally with loved ones, followed by musical interludes and a poetic piece titled 'Mary Jane'.

As heard by us

A wide political conversation finds its best moments when music and history keep the debate open.

Episode 599 brings Surf William back for a broad political conversation about what comes after the red wave, moving through teaching, dignity, racism, patriarchy, religion, immigration, and the Constitution.

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Why you'd press play

You get a fiddler, educator, resident historian, and a political conversation that refuses to stay small.

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