Exploring '96 Van Dam': Yearning in Urban Poetry

This chapter centers on Gerald Stern's poem '96 Van Dam,' exploring its themes of longing and shelter against the backdrop of New York City. The speakers delve into the intricate emotional landscape of the poem, discussing the interplay between stark realities and surreal imagery. They reflect on how the poem encapsulates personal yearning, intimacy, and the balance between desires and reality, revealing the transformative power of poetry to convey deep human experiences.