Host

“Host” by David Foster Wallace is one of the most interesting and challenging pieces of literature that I have come to read. The text was difficult to come by, how there were multiple boxes that were in the middle of sentences and paragraphs. Sometimes, there were even boxes within boxes. The essay is about John Ziegler and his life as a radio talk show host, with Wallace including his editorial comments in the boxes. Ziegler is a very outspoken person, which is quite controversial since he happens to be a radio host. It is revealed that Ziegler was fired from many of his jobs for being too profane and disrespectful. Moreover, Ziegler seems to be extra concerned with controversial topics including the stories of Kobe Bryant and particularly OJ Simpson. This brings about the question, “is Ziegler racist?” He seems unafraid and unsympathetic of using the “n” word all over the radio. It is interesting to see all the side notes that Wallace incorporates into the essay. Wallace helps the reader to develop varying opinions of Ziegler.