On this week’s episode, Steve is joined by guests hosts Laura Miller, a books and culture columnist for Slate, and Jamelle Bouie, a columnist for the New York Times and Slate’s former chief political correspondent. The panel takes on Lovecraft Country, HBO’s new horror series. Next, they talk about Charlie Kaufman’s enigmatic I’m Thinking of Ending Things. And finally, the panel dives into the “is NYC over?” debate.In Slate Plus, the hosts talk about a George Washington University professor’s recent confession that she falsely claimed a Black identity.Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on the Culture Gabfest each episode, and access to exclusive shows like Dana Stevens’ classic movies podcast Flashback. Sign up now to listen and support our work.Endorsements:Laura: The Silver Arrow by Lev GrossmanJamelle: The Way Back, a sports film starring Ben AffleckSteve: “What Ails America” by Timothy Snyder in the New York Review of Books, adapted from his new book, Our Malady: Lessons in Liberty from a Hospital DiaryAnd finally, please check out Jamelle’s cereal reviews for Serious Eats.Podcast production by Cameron Drews. Production assistance by Rachael Allen.Outro Music: Bloody Hunter by Paisley PinkLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices