A series of recent passings remember acclaimed topiary artist Pearl Fryar, hip-hop pioneer Afrika Bambaataa, and renowned session guitarist Wayne Perkins, marking the end of significant careers in arts and music.

• Pearl Fryar, a Picasso of Plants, Dies at 86 — New York Times Arts -
• Afrika Bambaataa, Often Called the ‘Godfather of Hip-Hop,’ Is Dead — New York Times Arts -
• Wayne Perkins, Guitarist to the Stars, Dies at 74 — New York Times Arts -

The latest in cinema includes interviews with Ian McKellen and Michaela Coel on their new film ‘The Christophers,’ a look at **Bob Odenkirk’s surprising turn to action roles, and reviews for ‘You, Me & Tuscany’ and the indie thriller ‘Exit 8.’**

• Ian McKellen and Michaela Coel Discuss Their Pairing in ‘The Christophers’ — New York Times Arts -
• Movie Review: You, Me & Tuscany — New York Times Arts -
• Exercise Used to Bore Bob Odenkirk. Now He’s Doing Stunts. — New York Times Arts -

• ‘Exit 8’ Review: Round and Round and Round He Goes … — New York Times Arts -

New literary discussions feature reviews of **Melvin Patrick Ely’s ‘A Terrible Intimacy’ exploring historical relationships, Paul Stob’s ‘EMPIRE OF SKULLS’ on cultural phenomena, and Violaine Huisman’s ‘The Monuments of Paris’** reflecting on family narratives.

• Book Review: ‘A Terrible Intimacy,’ by Melvin Patrick Ely — New York Times Books -
• Book Review: ‘EMPIRE OF SKULLS’ by Paul Stob — New York Times Books -
• Book Review: ‘The Monuments of Paris,’ by Violaine Huisman — New York Times Books -

This week's notable music conversations highlight new tracks from Lady Gaga and Doechii alongside the latest from The Strokes, showcasing diverse sounds capturing listeners’ attention.

• Lady Gaga and Doechii, the Strokes: 8 Songs We’re Talking About This Week — New York Times Arts -

A revealing interview explores **writer and actor Lena Dunham’s reflections** on public perception and her ongoing journey in the spotlight.

• Lena Dunham Is Still Trying to Figure Out Why People Hated Her So Much — New York Times Books -