Diane Mehta, author of 'Forest with Castanets,' reads Eavan Boland's 'The Lost Art of Letter Writing' & her poem 'Landscape with Double Bow'. Topics include the lost art of letter writing, memory, feminist perspectives, musical imagery, and the balance between lushness & staccato elements in poetry.
Exploring the theme of memory and loss, 'The Lost Art of Letter Writing' by Eavan Boland captures poignant emotions through metaphorical exploration.
Highlighting artistic process and introspective themes, Diane Mehta's 'Landscape with Double Bow' intertwines creativity, friendship, and rhythmic complexity.
Deep dives
Discussion on The Lost Art of Letter Writing
The discussion focuses on Yavann Boland's poem 'The Lost Art of Letter Writing' selected by poet Diane Mette. Mette praises the poem's pacing and intriguing opening, highlighting the poignant theme of memory and loss within the piece. By referencing specific phrases like 'is it still there?' and 'teaching sorrow to speak,' they delve into the deeper layers of emotional resonance and the poem's metaphorical exploration of art and longing.
Musicality and Reflection in Landscape with Double Bow
Diane Mette's poem 'Landscape with Double Bow' is explored, emphasizing its musicality and layered imagery. The conversation between Kevin Young and Mette delves into the poet's artistic process, drawing parallels between improvisational elements in music and writing. The poem's introspective tone and rhythmic complexity are highlighted, showcasing the intertwining themes of creativity, friendship, and artistic pursuit.
Painting with Words: Visual Interpretations and Poetic Expressions
The discussion touches on Mette's forthcoming collection 'Tiny Extravaganzas' and its focus on art and artists. Mette reflects on using a musical lexicon to depict art, creating visual and lyrical tapestries in her writing. The conversation explores the painterly quality of Mette's poems, emphasizing the evolution of her poetic style towards longer lines and expansive stanzas to capture intricate emotions and nuanced narratives.
Embracing Dialogue and Connection Through Poetry
The conversation wraps up by shedding light on the communal essence of poetry, where Mette's engagement with other artists influences her creative approach. Mette's poetic journey, from terse stanzas to longer lines, signifies a quest for artistic expansion and emotional depth. The poetic exchange with musicians and fellow artists reflects a harmonious blend of introspection, collaboration, and a profound exploration of art through diverse perspectives.
Diane Mehta joins Kevin Young to read “The Lost Art of Letter Writing,” by Eavan Boland, and her own poem “Landscape with Double Bow.” Mehta is the author of the poetry collection “Forest with Castanets” and the forthcoming “Tiny Extravaganzas,” and the recipient of the Peter Heinegg Literary Award, as well as of grants and fellowships from the Cafe Royal Cultural Foundation, Civitella Ranieri, and Yaddo.