Zombification: Stories from National Public Radio

Andrei Codrescu, a Romanian immigrant and English professor, writes essays for National Public Radio. His essays demonstrate his appreciation of European and American culture.Mr. Codrescu defines zombification as indifference caused by overexposure to suffering. Our television sets are portals that harden our hearts and deaden our nerves to the plight of the poor, the persecuted, and the dying. We relate to other people as shadowy images rather than as real people. Andrei Codrescu's observations are serious, but he discusses them in an entertaining manner.Examples of Mr. Codrescu's observations include: (after witnessing the 1967 Detroit riots) "Gangs have stepped into the vacuum left by suppression of radical politics."; (to the President) "Be sure to carry a tool kit with you at all times. In the next years everything is going to fall apart."; and (cynical people) "have learned to navigate by their stomachs: that's one infallible compass."Professor Codrescu's essays are well-crafted, entertaining, and merit rereading for their societal insight.

Andrei Codrescu writes essays for National Public Radio. He emigrated to the United States from Communist Romania. His appreciation of European and American culture is evident in his writings.Mr. Codrescu defines zombification as indifference to suffering caused by overexposure to the media. Our television sets are portals that harden our hearts and deaden our nerves to the plight of the poor, the persecuted, and the dying. We relate to other people as shadowy images rather than as real people. Andrei Codrescu's message is serious, but he discusses these issues in an entertaining manner.Examples of Mr. Codrescu's essays include 'Escape from Politics' ("the Republican National Convention. It's the kingdom of the Overambitious."); 'Riots' (after witnessing the 1967 Detroit riots "Gangs have stepped into the vacuum left by suppression of radical politics."); 'Advice to the New Chief: Inauguration Day, 1993' ("Be sure to carry a tool kit with you at all times. In the next years everything is going to fall apart."); and 'Soviet Maps: Reality and Its Next of Kin' (Repressed people "have learned to navigate by their stomachs: that's one infallible compass.")Andrei Codrescu's essays are well-crafted and entertaining. One rereads them for their societal insight. Mr. Codrescu observes much, says much, and leaves additional clues for the reader.

Andrei Codrescu manages to say so much,yet keeps the book moving quickly. The anecdotes and observations, obviously personal to Codrescu, each hold some universal truth. His style is a strong complement to our ever shortening attention spans. Briskly paced, sharp and funny; once you begin reading, you will find the book difficult to put down.