‘Ozymandias’: Shelley’s Poem of Hubris, in ‘Breaking Bad’ and Beyond
New Mexico’s desert is the backdrop for the latest use of the poem, “Ozymandias” (Photo: Dennis Larson/Flickr)
The teaser trailer for the final episodes of the TV show “Breaking Bad” is set to shots of the New Mexico desert. It’s paired with the show’s lead character, Walter White, reading the poem, “Ozymandias,” by 19th century British poet Percy Bysshe Shelley–a poem cautioning against hubris. Good choice, “Breaking Bad.” But you’re hardly the first to use it.
At The World, we believe strongly that human-centered journalism is at the heart of an informed public and a strong democracy. We see democracy and journalism as two sides of the same coin. If you care about one, it is imperative to care about the other.
Every day, our nonprofit newsroom seeks to inform and empower listeners and hold the powerful accountable. Neither would be possible without the support of listeners like you. If you believe in our work, will you give today? We need your help now more than ever!