I have never read the works of Frank McCourt (author of popular books like Angela’s Ashes), but because he often graced my media staples like NPR, i had learned to appreciate and enjoy his take on America’s decadent persona. It is sad to see him and his insight go. He really put old cranky dudes like Andy Rooney to shame. I didn’t see his schtick reflect longing for the american idea of yesteryear (born in brooklyn, he grew up destitute in Ireland), but more of an indictment of materialism and its promise of easy joy.

Here is an interview i heard on NPR’s Studio 360 from McCourt on his ideas on how Americans raise their children. It’s a great listen: (continue reading…)