Thomas Mallon

This episode of Fresh Air features two main segments: an interview with author Thomas Mallon by Terry Gross, discussing Mallon's new book of diaries from the AIDS epidemic era and his historical fiction, particularly his novel "Up with the Sun," which explores the life of a closeted gay actor; and a remembrance of jazz singer Sheila Jordan, including excerpts from past Fresh Air interviews with her, focusing on her career, influences like Charlie Parker, and her experiences navigating the jazz scene as a white woman and balancing her music with a day job. The episode concludes with a review by Justin Chang of Spike Lee's new film, "Highest 2 Lowest," a remake of Akira Kurosawa's "High and Low," praising its exploration of race, class, and the challenges of staying relevant in the music industry.