Tariq Ali
Interview recorded in London 2008
35' 13"
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Writer, historian, film-maker and campaigner Tariq Ali has long been the charismatic voice of the activist left. He first came to prominence as an effective and articulate speaker during the Vietnam war in the 60s, when he publicly debated with the likes of Henry Kissinger and emerged as one of the main spokesmen for critics of American foreign policy. 40 years on, Ali is still fighting similar causes as an outspoken critic of the Iraq war, of governments and religions – a constant thorn in the side of many. But Tariq Ali is also passionate about arts and culture; and music has clearly played an important part in his life. He is, after all, the inspiration behind the Rolling Stones’s classic ‘Street Fighting Man’.
How wonderful to hear the passionate views of someone with such a clear and un-influenced vision of societies around the world. Tariq Ali’s fearless ability to voice the truth about our culture can make you laugh as he says those things that most of us dare not utter. And yet with all his intellectual prowess, his care and desire for our well-being is inspiring.
Robert
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Pod Talk presented by Robert Cohen and produced by Tommy Pearson.
© Robert Cohen 2009
Theme music: Sonata for Solo Cello, Op 8 (Mvt III) by Zoltan Kodaly,
published by Universal Edition.
