Pope Francis has passed, Sterling K. Brown‘s “Paradise” is mesmerizing television, and Michael has discovered the joy of creating music with AI. Welcome to another episode of The Anne Levine Show, where our conversations meander through culture, technology, and occasionally (like today), the end of the world.

Michael enthusiastically shares his latest creative endeavor: writing lyrics and using AI to generate custom songs. From birthday tributes to twisted lullabies (“There are no ghosts under the bed… just a bit of blood and gore”), his creations showcase how technology can enhance rather than replace human creativity. The demonstration of these songs provides both entertainment and a glimpse into how accessible music creation has become through emerging technologies.

Our book recommendations transport you across time and experience: Paul Murray’s epic “The Beasting” offers a sweeping family saga, while Paul Harding’s “This Other Eden” explores mixed-race families on a tiny Maine island in the early 20th century. We also rediscover “Allied,” a 2016 WWII film starring Brad Pitt and Marion Cotillard that somehow flew under our radar despite its star power and compelling storytelling.

The most thought-provoking moments emerge when we contemplate existential questions raised by “Paradise” – what happens to art, culture, and human achievement during apocalyptic scenarios? Does the Vatican’s priceless collection mean anything in a world where survival itself is threatened? These philosophical musings sit alongside lighter fare like the etymology of financial terms and debates about why Cape Cod men of a certain age favor ponytails.

Check out Michael’s AI-generated songs at suno.com under “Michael Over There” and join us next week as we continue our journey through the meaningful, the curious, and occasionally the absurd. Your weekly reminder that education and entertainment need not be mutually exclusive.