Mad Men

Sweater Weather

In this episode of Sweater Weather, we chat about the iconic TV series Mad Men, exploring its themes, characters, and why it might just be the "Great American Novel" of television.

We kick things off with some personal writing updates—Naomi is deep into ghostwriting and editing, while Aaron has written about 20,000 words of a novel he hopes will end up being very short.

But the real focus is on Mad Men, which Aaron recently rewatched and Naomi experienced for the first time. From Don Draper’s enigmatic charm to Peggy Olson’s groundbreaking journey, we dissect the show’s portrayal of the 1960s, touching on gender roles, workplace dynamics, and the cultural shifts of the era. We also discuss how Mad Men masterfully weaves historical events—like the moon landing and the Civil Rights Movement—into its narrative, making it a rich tapestry of American life during a transformative decade.

We debate the complexities of Don Draper as an anti-hero, his struggles with identity, and how the show balances his anti-heroic flaws with his undeniable charisma. And of course, we can’t resist talking about that unforgettable finale—Don’s journey to self-discovery and the creation of one of the most famous ads of all time. Somehow, it’s both a moment of redemption AND the perfect ad campaign.

So pour yourself a whiskey from your office liquor cart, light up a Lucky Strike, and join us for a fun chat about one the best T.V. shows of all time.

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