Rick Kleffel’s Agony Column website just posted an interesting podcast with author Colson Whitehead. Colson’s new book, Apex Hides the Hurt, revolves around an African-American “corporate namer"—or “nomenclature consultant"—who makes his living coming up with effective product names. Apex, you see, is a brand of bandage designed to match any skin tone; “Apex Hides the Hurt” is its resonating tagline. Our nomenclature consultant is called upon to weigh in on the renaming of a town and, well, we recommend downloading the podcast for a full preview. Kafka and Borges are cited as distinct influences.

Colson will join the critically acclaimed Nicole Krauss (The History of Love) for a reading here this Thursday night.

[Nicole Krauss and Colson Whitehead: 04/27/06]