Peek behind the curtain of history as our Producer, Patrick, rejoins us and gets to lean into his New York City tour guide roots, as he joins me in painting a vivid portrait of Emma Lazarus, the illustrious American author whose words on the Statue of Liberty have become a national treasure. Our conversation travels through the corridors of her life, from her New York roots and Sephardic Jewish heritage to her poignant poetry that speaks volumes about America's soul. We promise you'll leave this episode with a newfound appreciation for Lazarus's influence on our nation's narrative, especially in the realm of immigration discourse.

Step into the world of 19th-century artistic salons and witness the birth of celebrity culture among poets and intellectuals of the age. We'll explore how Lazarus's literary prowess was nurtured in such a vibrant environment, leading to her engagement with social issues and activism that still echo today.

Finally, we draw captivating parallels between historical events and their reinterpretation in modern media. From the emotional impact of immigrants laying eyes on Lady Liberty for the first time, to the transformation of the iconic words in the Wolfenstein video game series, we traverse not just the life of Emma Lazarus but also the shifting sands of symbolism she helped shape. So, join us for this tapestry of tales and take a step back in time to appreciate the enduring spirit that these icons represent.

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