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“Uncommon Knowledge” At–Can This Be So?–Twenty-Five
Over at The Dispatch, the very talented young journalist Guy Denton has just published a history Uncommon Knowledge, which turns 25 this year. The piece is kind, generous, and remarkably comprehensive. Before you read it, though, would you make me a promise? Bear in mind that I’m still alive.
Peter Robinson is just the best.
“much of the intimacy and subtlety of real-life interaction disappears in a remote setting.” I think this is one of the gifts that Mr. Robinson brings to his conversations: no matter the setting or circumstances or guest (Tom Wolfe at his home was my favorite), the authentic inquiry and eagerness for knowledge spills over from an exchange between two people to invite the viewer as a sort of participant in the discourse at hand. It lends itself to a deeper level beyond that of one today obsessed with the ‘gotcha’ or pitching a viewpoint. Mr. Robinson’s extensive research and homework (as explained in the piece) shines through in that it directs viewers to think critically about what is being said, and what the viewer thinks of, or even questions, his own opinions and ideas. Maybe that’s part of his self-awareness to let the conversation flow where it leads? A very good profile of a well-deserving subject. Congratulations on 25 years.
I would like to go on the record as saying I’m glad you’re not dead.
As for the show not being a slave to production values I just like to say, “Hey, have you ever done a show focused solely on the Fifth Amendment?”
An excellent piece and a well deserved tribute to Peter. I’ve been watching (and sharing with friends) Uncommon Knowledge for over a decade, and it was one of the main inspirations for my own, very modest foray into podcasting/interviewing. Thanks for the consistency, wide range of guests and civility (even to that arrogant prat Vidal). Congratulations Peter and gratitude for taking us along for the ride!
I’ll be forwarding this one to my kids.
I only dream of viewers as engaged and insightful as you, Jenna! Thanks–thanks tons.
I could do the same with this reply! Woo hoo!
Some of the best interviews, always learn something
A great production-the questions are excellent and demonstrate a sincere affection & appreciation towards the guest. In the conservative pantheon it ranks up there with Firing Line-but is almost always a show among friends so is a welcome respite from the outrage & clickbait world that surrounds us.
addendum- I wrote the above before reading the Dispatch piece- I never knew that WFB wanted Uncommon Knowledge to replace Firing Line! Glad I read the article- brought back memories of many guests & now I will have to rewatch those episodes.
I have said it before: there is no interviewer who does it better. Peter Robinson possesses a humility that makes his interviewees completely comfortable, and those of us listening are just in awe of his ability to ask just the right questions.
As Rob Long said, no one prepares for an interview better than Peter Robinson.
There is only one thing left to do. We must give him an evenly matched opponent. Peter Robinson must interview Peter Robinson.
I can comment but I can’t check my inbox