‘The Dog Stars’ novelist Peter Heller / Remembering rock critic Dave Marsh

Author Peter Heller details the creative process behind his post-apocalyptic novel *The Dog Stars*, drawing on his background as an outdoorsman and pilot to explore themes of survival, grief, and the human need for connection in a collapsed world. The program also honors the late rock critic Dave Marsh, whose career as a Springsteen biographer and cultural analyst shaped the discourse around rock music, particularly through his deep dives into the historical and social significance of iconic tracks like *Louie Louie*. Additionally, film critic Justin Chang reviews *Dreams in Nightmares*, a road-trip drama by Shatara Michelle Ford that centers on four queer friends navigating personal transitions and the search for autonomy. These segments collectively examine the intersection of artistic expression, historical legacy, and the enduring human drive to find meaning and freedom amidst adversity.