The podcast episodes provided focus on two distinct works of Japanese literature: Hiromi Ito's poetry collection 'Tree Spirits, Grass Spirits' and Shigeru Kayama's original Godzilla novellas.

The episode discussing Ito's poetry Hiromi Ito, "Tree Spirits Grass Spirits" (Nightboat Books, 2023) explores how the author uses representations of plants to explore philosophical themes, while the translation challenges are also discussed. The episode on Kayama's Godzilla novellas Jeffrey Angles, ed., "Godzilla and Godzilla Raids Again: The Original Novellas by Shigeru Kayama" (U Michigan Press, 2023) delves into the cultural significance of the iconic monster as a metaphor for environmental destruction and the ethical responsibilities of science.

These episodes showcase the depth and diversity of Japanese literature, ranging from lyrical poetry to influential science fiction narratives.