CBS Radio Workshop
The Space Merchants, Part 1 of 3
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CBS Radio Workshop was an experimental anthology series that brought literary works, original drama, and other imaginative material to radio. Its episodes explored a wide range of subjects and styles, with the flexibility to move between science fiction, mystery, comedy, and serious drama.
This recording presents the first part of a three-part adaptation of The Space Merchants, the science-fiction novel by Frederik Pohl and C. M. Kornbluth. The story imagines a future shaped by powerful advertising interests, where consumer persuasion reaches into everyday life and even the ambitions of space exploration. The serial format lets the novel’s satirical ideas unfold over multiple installments.
The program’s appeal lies in its willingness to treat radio as a creative workshop: narration, dialogue, and sound bring literary material to life while making room for bold ideas and sharply observed social satire. This opening installment begins a story that combines speculative adventure with a pointed look at commercial influence.
This recording is part of the Old Time Radio collection.
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