Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: Listener's Playhouse 40-06-29 (01) The Twenty First Girl
Release Date: August 10, 2025
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Description: A dramatization set in the Golden Age of Radio, featuring legendary characters and captivating storytelling reminiscent of classic radio shows like The Shadow and Dragnet.
1. Introduction to Listener's Playhouse
The episode begins with an introduction to "The Listeners Playhouse," a new feature on the National Broadcasting Company (NBC). Narrated at [00:23], the segment showcases plays written by talented young writers, supplemented occasionally by other emerging storytellers. Specially composed music by Tom Bennett sets the dramatic tone for each production.
2. The Legend Awakens: Paul Bunyan’s Rampage
At [01:38], the character known as the 21st Girl introduces herself:
“When you hear that music that's me I'm the 21st girl that Paul Bunyan wanted to marry.”
Shortly after, Paul Bunyan declares his presence:
“Listen when you hear that music that's me Paul Bunyan.” [01:51]
The tranquility of Saturday night, June 29, 1940, is shattered as Paul Bunyan wreaks havoc along Lake Superior, uprooting trees and hurling boulders into the lake. At [03:40], the Sheriff explains:
“What shall we do? We can't lock him up. He's too big. You're the only man who can handle Paul Bunyan. He'll do anything you tell him to.”
Johnny Inkslinger, the protagonist, is tasked with stopping Bunyan's destructive spree. As Johnny prepares for the daunting task, he humbly describes Paul Bunyan's might:
“Taller than the tallest tree. That's Paul Bunyan. Stronger than a hundred men...” [04:15]
3. Confrontation and Paul’s Inner Turmoil
Upon meeting, Paul Bunyan reveals his vulnerability. At [05:06], he confides in Johnny:
“I've been crying. Now, don't you say a word to anybody about it. But that was me crying.”
Johnny, concerned, probes deeper into Paul’s distress:
“Mr. Bunyan, why did you do that? You've never broken things before...” [06:04]
Paul admits his loneliness and desire for companionship:
“I'm in love. I'm a man, Johnny. I may be a legend, but I'm still a man...” [08:32]
He articulates his loneliness through nature metaphors:
“Except me. Except Paul Bunyan.” [09:42]
4. The Marriage Dilemma: Contest for the 21st Bride
To alleviate his loneliness, Paul decides to seek a bride, leading to a town-wide contest organized by the Sheriff. At [12:06], the Sheriff outlines the setup:
“Ladies and women from all over the country have come here hoping to be chosen to be Paul Bunyan's bride.”
Paul, overwhelmed by the attention, humorously juggles his suitors:
“Paul, hand me another bucket of that grease. My hair won't stay in place.” [12:20]
The contest progresses with multiple candidates vying for Paul's affection, each showcasing their unique qualities. Johnny, observing the chaos, warns:
“Don't throw her out, you fool. Set her aside. Fried eggs ain't hay.” [14:00]
Despite the organized setup, Paul becomes conflicted as he finds himself attracted to multiple women, leading to an unmanageable situation.
5. Legal Turmoil and Paul’s Predicament
The plot thickens when Paul intends to marry 21 women, exceeding the marriage license limit of 20. The Sheriff reveals the complication at [23:18]:
“Paul Bunyan has promised to marry 21 girls.”
Johnny and the Sheriff grapple with the legal ramifications, debating bigamy versus "bigotry" (a humorous twist in terminology):
Johnny Inkslinger: “Marrying two women is bigamy. Marrying 20 is bigotry.” [18:09]
Paul contemplates escaping the situation:
“I'm miserable. I don't want to get married. I want to be alone.” [25:02]
6. Resolution: Embracing the Legend’s Role
The turning point occurs when the 21st Girl confronts Paul, urging him to realize that his love was never genuine:
“You think you were in love. But we figured that you weren't really in love with us.” [26:03]
Together with the other suitors, they persuade Paul to embrace his role as a legend rather than seek multiple affections. Paul vows to remain a symbol of strength and unity for everyone:
“I'll always be your greatest and best legend. A legend of strength and power for America.” [27:40]
7. Conclusion: The Legend’s Legacy
The episode concludes with Paul Bunyan accepting his place as a beloved legend, ensuring that his myth inspires and unites rather than divides. The Narrator wraps up at [28:30]:
“You've just heard the listeners playhouse. The 21st Girl by Albert N. Williams. Special music was by Tom Bennett, conducted by Joseph Stopak.”
Notable Cast:
- Paul Bunyan: Mark Smith
- Johnny Inkslinger: Peter Arnold
- 21st Girl: Gertrude Warner
Key Takeaways
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Legacy and Responsibility: Paul Bunyan’s transformation from a solitary giant to a shared symbol emphasizes the importance of community and collective belief in legends.
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Love and Loneliness: The story explores the fine line between genuine love and the burdens of excessive attention, highlighting the challenges of maintaining personal integrity amidst public adoration.
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Humor and Heart: Through witty dialogues and heartfelt moments, the play balances humor with emotional depth, making it resonate with listeners of all ages.
Notable Quotes:
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Johnny Inkslinger at [04:15]: “Taller than the tallest tree. That's Paul Bunyan. Stronger than a hundred men...”
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Paul Bunyan at [08:32]: “I'm in love. I'm a man, Johnny. I may be a legend, but I'm still a man...”
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21st Girl at [26:03]: “You think you were in love. But we figured that you weren't really in love with us.”
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Paul Bunyan at [27:40]: “I'll always be your greatest and best legend. A legend of strength and power for America.”
Conclusion
The Twenty First Girl presents a thoughtful and engaging narrative that delves into the human aspects of legendary figures. By combining humor, drama, and insightful dialogues, the play offers listeners a captivating experience that honors the rich tradition of old-time radio storytelling.