I’m Sean Murphy—author, editor, professor, founder of 1455 Literary Arts, and advocate for storytelling. You might have seen my work in The New York Times, The Huffington Post, USA Today, Writer's Digest, or heard me on NPR. Subscribe to my podcast Some Things Considered, and check me out on Substack, with four distinct sections exploring culture, creativity, and politics.
Covering the World, One Story at a Time
On Culture, Politics, and Art
A mix of topical essays, behind-the-scenes looks at the writing process, and reflections on the issues that matter most to me
Exploring the Depths of Prog Rock
Passionate musings and strong opinions on artists and songs, including excerpts from a work-in-progress prog rock primer, and reflections on the genre's history
American History Via Music
Poems and essays that explore America's mythology and cultural history, celebrating iconic figures who overcame systemic discrimination to achieve greatness
Rethinking Narratives of Masculinity
Reflections on the roots of male toxicity, examining how societal expectations of masculinity contribute to anger, alienation, and dysfunction
Critically Acclaimed Author of 8 Books
I’m also the author of 8 books, including This Kind of Man, a bold look at modern masculinity, the poetry collection Kinds of Blue, the award-winning memoir Please Talk About Me When I'm Gone, and the novel Not to Mention a Nice Life, a satire on the dot-com boom and bust.
This Kind of Man
"...anatomizing all the ways that American masculinity finds itself adrift, with a special thought for the women in the same lifeboat..."
Kinds of Blue
"A transformative journey that not only unveils new dimensions to familiar tunes but beckons you to venture into uncharted musical realms."
Rhapsodies in Blue
"Sean Murphy is a blues and jazz artist poet who touches our souls and enriches our lives!"
The Blackened Blues
"There is a grand richness here in The Blackened Blues and these poems may very well keep you up at night."
Not to Mention a Nice Life
"...half Fight Club, half Catcher in the Rye for the middle-aged. Regardless, I'm hooked."