Circle Round Podcast: "Out of Time" Episode Summary
Release Date: May 27, 2025
Introduction
In this captivating episode of Circle Round, titled "Out of Time," host Rebecca Shear presents a beautifully adapted Japanese folktale that intertwines themes of cleverness, justice, and the subtle power of storytelling. Aimed at children and families, the episode not only entertains but also fosters meaningful conversations between young listeners and grown-ups.
Story Overview
The Clockmaker's Dilemma (00:24 - 06:15)
The tale begins with a dedicated clockmaker who has poured months into crafting a magnificent gold and silver clock commissioned by the Governor. Early one morning, she discovers her shop in disarray and the precious clock missing. A quick chase ensues, leading her to suspect a tall, skinny, bald figure with a shuffling gait fleeing the scene.
Notable Quote:
The clockmaker laments, “[...] that gold and silver clock was worth a fortune. And I worked so hard on it. I must get it back. But how?" ([03:43]).
Desperate to recover her masterpiece, the clockmaker seeks the wisdom of Judge Ursula at the local courthouse. Despite her thorough description, the judge knows she needs a more insightful approach to identify the true culprit among two similar-looking suspects.
The Courtroom Confrontation (06:45 - 20:30)
Judge Ursula convenes a courtroom packed with curious townsfolk eager to witness the resolution. Upon presenting the two suspects—both matching the clockmaker’s description—the judge engages them in a unique interrogation.
Notable Quote:
Judge Ursula declares, “...by the time this day is through, their talons will be revealed.” ([09:01]).
She asks each suspect to share a story about the cleverest person they’ve ever heard of. The farmer tells of a village boy who cleverly confessed to stealing rabbits by keeping a food journal, while the fisherman narrates a tale of a thief using a clever trick to steal the mayor's silk sheets without waking him.
The Judge’s Insight (17:57 - 20:30)
Judge Ursula listens intently to both stories, recognizing a pattern of honesty versus deceit. She reveals her own story, mirroring the current case, and deduces that the farmer, who admires honesty, must be innocent. Conversely, the fisherman, who admires clever dishonesty, is identified as the true thief.
Notable Quote:
Upon uncovering the truth, Rebecca narrates, “She [the judge] knew the man who admired honesty was innocent. And the man who admired dishonesty was guilty.” ([20:11]).
The fisherman flees the courtroom when confronted, but further investigation leads to the discovery of the stolen clock in his attic. Justice prevails as the clock is returned to the grateful clockmaker, and the town celebrates the judge’s clever use of storytelling to uncover the truth.
Themes and Insights
"Out of Time" emphasizes the significance of storytelling as a tool for revealing deeper truths and understanding human nature. Judge Ursula’s methodical approach showcases how stories can reflect personal values and moral alignments, aiding in discerning honesty from deceit.
Notable Quote:
Rebecca Shear concludes the narrative with, “[...] justice was served. All thanks to a clever judge who appreciated the power of a good story and always remembered the importance of reading between the lines.” ([20:11]).
Conclusion
This episode serves as the grand finale of Circle Round's eighth season, celebrating nearly 300 episodes by engaging listeners in a timeless story that underscores the value of wisdom, honesty, and the nuanced layers within each tale. The clockmaker’s journey and Judge Ursula's ingenuity offer a memorable lesson on the impact of keen observation and the power of narratives.
Listener Engagement
Following the story, Circle Round invites listeners to share their favorite episodes, featuring heartfelt testimonials from fans across various locations. This interactive segment fosters a sense of community and encourages ongoing participation in the show's rich storytelling tradition.
Behind the Scenes
Special thanks are given to contributors, including Brittany Ishibashi, who voices key characters, and Dean Russell, the editor. The episode's original music, featuring the traditional Japanese koto, enriches the auditory experience, providing cultural authenticity and depth to the narrative.
Join the Circle Round Community
Listeners are encouraged to support Circle Round by joining the Circle Round Club, offering benefits like ad-free episodes, exclusive content, and personalized messages. Additionally, fans are prompted to leave reviews and ratings to help expand the show's reach, ensuring that more families can enjoy these enriching folktales.
For more stories, coloring pages, and interactive activities, visit WBUR.org/CircleRound.