The New Yorker Radio Hour
The New Yorker Celebrates a Hundred Years as a Poetry and Fiction Tastemaker
Feb 4, 2025
Kevin Young, the poetry editor at The New Yorker and director of the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture, shares his insights on the magazine’s evolution as a literary beacon. He reflects on the thrill of curating a century of poetry and fiction, emphasizing the transformative power of rejection in a writer's journey. Young also discusses the crucial role of poetry during crises, highlighting poignant works like Adam Zagievsky's in the wake of 9/11, and celebrates the fresh voices that continue to shape The New Yorker's narrative landscape.
18:19
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Quick takeaways
- The New Yorker evolved from a comic publication to a literary powerhouse, publishing thousands of diverse works over a century.
- Current efforts emphasize inclusivity in literature, aiming to address historical underrepresentation of black and Asian voices in poetry and fiction.
Deep dives
The New Yorker’s Evolution from Humor to Literature
The New Yorker began primarily as a lighthearted publication under its founding editor, Harold Ross, who envisioned it as a comic paper. However, a significant turning point occurred with the hiring of Catherine White, an editor determined to incorporate high-caliber fiction and poetry into the magazine. This shift led to the publication of nearly 14,000 pieces of fiction and approximately 13,500 poems over a century, showcasing the magazine's commitment to literary quality. The blending of humor and serious literature has allowed The New Yorker to evolve, reflecting changing tastes while maintaining a distinct voice.
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