248 – The Tale of Odysseus and Polyphemus

248 – The Tale of Odysseus and Polyphemus

Author: T.Q. Townsend August 5, 2026 Duration: 48:31

It was too windy for me to sit by the fire, so come join me as I invoke the blessings of Apollo, patron of storytellers, by sitting in front of musical instruments wearing laurel leaves.

I really enjoyed the special effects and visual storytelling in Christopher Nolan’s Odyssey, particularly the scene with Polyphemus the cyclops, a character portrayed with the use of an enormous puppet. However, I was dissatisfied by the rewriting of the plot and characters in this scene, so I thought I would share the original version for you. I have tried to limit my commentary on this tale because it flows so beautifully and needs very little explanation.

Here I am reading from the lyrical, alliterative translation done by A.T. Murray. This translation is in the public domain. As this is an edited and polished video made from a live performance, there are several small errors in my reading.

If you would like to see the full livestream of this reading, including conversation with those who tuned in, here’s the link!


Ever wonder about the deeper layers hiding within the pages of a beloved children's book? The Children's Literature Podcast, hosted by T.Q. Townsend, is for adults who appreciate these stories as much more than simple tales. This isn't a show for kids, but rather a thoughtful exploration for book-loving grown-ups, educators, parents, and curious teens. Each episode digs into a single book or theme, unraveling the historical background, cultural context, and literary craftsmanship that often goes unnoticed. Townsend guides you through the fascinating details behind the stories, revealing why they were written and how they reflect the world at the time. The goal is to equip teachers and parents with richer insights, allowing them to share these books with greater depth and connection. You'll discover practical ideas for lessons and activities that can transform a reading session into a more engaging experience, whether it's in a classroom or at home. Listening to this podcast feels like joining a well-informed book club conversation, one that rekindles your appreciation for the genre and provides tangible tools to make literature come alive for young readers. It's about seeing the familiar stories from your own childhood, or those you read aloud now, through a new and more insightful lens. The discussion goes beyond plot summary to examine the author's intent, artistic influences, and the subtle themes that resonate across generations. If you've ever found yourself pondering the deeper meaning in a children's classic or wanting to discuss its significance with other adults, this is the space for that conversation. T.Q. Townsend brings a clear passion and scholarly curiosity to each topic, making complex ideas accessible and immediately useful. The Children's Literature Podcast ultimately celebrates the enduring power of these books while giving you the knowledge to share that power more effectively. It connects the dots between the story on the page and the wider world, enriching your understanding and your ability to pass that understanding along.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 31

The Children's Literature Podcast
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