Alzabo Soup

Alzabo Soup is the podcast where we literally become our favorite authors by devouring portions of their brains. We analyze engrossing speculative fiction with a chapter-by-chapter focus on acclaimed author Gene Wolfe. We update weekly on Fridays.

We are currently covering The Book of the Short Sun by Gene Wolfe.

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Recent Episodes

Oct. 9, 2025

Chapter 1 Part 2 - Gene Wolfe's Return to the Whorl

Intro - Phil reveals the hot new Spirit Halloween game to Metz. Content (6:36) - Discussion of the Part 2 of Chapter 1 of Return to the Whorl, by Gene Wolfe. This Month's Read-Along - The Bloody Chamber, by Angela Carter Chec...
Oct. 2, 2025

Chapter 1 Part 1 - Gene Wolfe's Return to the Whorl

Intro - Metz tells Phil about an unusual arrest. Content (6:07) - Discussion of the Part 1 of Chapter 1 of Return to the Whorl, by Gene Wolfe. This Month's Read-Along - The Bloody Chamber, by Angela Carter Check out more at a...
Sept. 25, 2025

Introduction and Character List - Gene Wolfe's Return to the Whorl

Intro - Phil celebrates his completion of Moby Dick. Content (8:54) - Discussion of the character list and context of Return to the Whorl, by Gene Wolfe. This Month's Read-Along - Kitchen by Banana Yoshimoto. Check out more a...

About the Hosts

Phil Profile Photo

Phil

Host

Phil has been a fan of Gene Wolfe since college and names his RPG characters after Severian at every opportunity. He's the writer of the game 'Normal Club, which can be found on the Apple and Google stores, and he's always drawing something cool! Phil lives in Colorado with his wife, his son, and the newest member of their family, D'artagnan the dog.

Metz Profile Photo

Metz

Host

When not talking too much about Gene Wolfe books and other speculative fiction, Andrew "Metz" Metzroth works as a performing arts designer and arts administrator based in Colorado. Since 2005, he has worked on or helped bring to life hundreds of theatre, dance, and music projects. Metz lives in Colorado with his wife, his daughter, and his three cats.