Arts and Culture

A Winona musician is highlighted as Monday’s Song of the Day.

Jack Zipes thinks that answers to the major cultural and political quandaries of today can be found in the fairy tales of the past. Host Cathy Wurzer spoke with the celebrated University of Minnesota professor and “cultural excavator” about the history of fairy tales and his new press, Little Mole and Honey Bear.

Do you bake or craft? MPR News guest host Stephanie Curtis talks to people who are making gifts for the holidays as a way to relieve pandemic stress and pass on joy from the heart. 

Jewish families haven't always given presents on Hanukkah — it only dates to the 1880s. Arthur Levine's kids' book “The Hanukkah Magic of Nate Gadol” imagines a fanciful origin for the tradition.

The selection follows "vax" as word of the year from the folks who publish the Oxford English Dictionary. And it comes after Merriam-Webster chose "pandemic" as tops in lookups last year on its online site.

Virgil Abloh, a leading designer whose groundbreaking fusions of streetwear and high couture made him one of the most celebrated tastemakers in fashion and beyond, has died of cancer. He was 41.

NPR's Scott Simon reflects on the life and legacy of Stephen Sondheim: “Those of us who loved Stephen Sondheim have carried his lyrics along in our minds as if he'd somehow used his Blackwing pencil to excavate words from our own hearts.”

Broadway legend Stephen Sondheim has died at 91. NPR Pop Culture Happy Hour's Linda Holmes looks back on her favorite Sondheim tunes.

Kate Bowler is back with another bestseller. In her new book, “No Cure for Being Human,” she asks: How do you move forward with a life you didn’t choose?

One more day until Thanksgiving! If you need a break from all the prep, check out our bird-themed Song of the Day.