Episode 93: Rhapsody in Blue

Episode notes

Elizabeth brings this week’s case against her husband Eric. Elizabeth and Eric make a living performing together; Elizabeth is a visual artist who paints on stage while Eric, a singer-songwriter, performs original songs. At the core of their dispute is a question of propriety — Elizabeth objects to the use of swear words in Eric’s songs as children occasionally attend their performances. Also, Elizabeth is intrigued and inspired by artists who see avoiding profanity in their work as a challenge. Eric, on the other hand, believes there is a place in art for profanity if its use helps the artist get a point across. Who is right? Judge John Hodgman decides.

John Roderick from The Long Winters lends the court his songwriting experience this week as an expert witness. John’s most recent album is One Christmas At a Time, a holiday collaboration with Jonathan Coulton. For more signature John Roderick insight, you can tune in to his weekly podcast with Merlin Mann, Roderick on the Line.

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Special thanks to Frank McGeough for suggesting this title.

EVIDENCE

Evidence from Elizabeth
Exhibit A:
“Quiet Epiphany” – Eric says “dick” at 03:52

Exhibit B:
“The Buttercup” – Eric says “damn” at 00:42

Exhibit C:
“I Once Kissed a Woman Simply For Her Lips” – Eric says “bastardized” at 03:38 and “pissed” at 03:45

Photos of the paintings viewable at Pocket Vinyl’s Facebook page.