Imprimatur

The year is 1944, and the world is at war. Overseas, the first American boats are crashing onto blood-stained beaches, but there are battles on the home front too. The newly minted Office of War Information is fighting the battle of ideas, contracting broadcasters across the nation to make patriotic propaganda. There’s plenty of money and influence to go around, and Noah Sweeting wants in on the action. A writer for the Imprimatur Broadcasting Company, he pitches a scripted program called “We Find Our Heroes,” an anthology that dramatizes— and embellishes— the stories of authentic Great War veterans.

With the help of an ironically pacifistic actor, the show quickly becomes a meteoric hit. Millions of Americans tune in each week to hear the propagandists lionize their heroes and demonize their enemies. But the propagandists’ newfound success is troubled with logistical nightmares and ethical questions. And worst of all: their open invitation for dramatic stories has invited something unthinkable through the door, a story that will put both of their lives at risk.

Imprimatur is a new fiction podcast created by Newton Holt. This program is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council.