Death, Sex & Money After Sobriety, Chasing Goosebumps Instead of Highs
Feb 11, 2025
Kaveh Akbar, an acclaimed poet and writer whose novel 'Martyr!' is a National Book Award finalist, shares his journey from addiction to sobriety. He discusses how poetry became his new obsession and a healing outlet. Kaveh reflects on the transformative power of creative expression and how it reshaped his identity. He humorously recounts his youthful passions, like collecting basketball cards, and emphasizes the importance of embracing new, healthier obsessions in life.
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A Poultry Meet-Cute
- Kaveh Akbar's parents met during a poultry science class.
- His mother, struggling to humanely kill a chicken, was assisted by his father.
Duck Farm Reality
- Kaveh's father worked on corporate duck farms, not idyllic settings.
- The farms were biosecure factories focused on efficient protein production.
Finding His Calling
- Kaveh's strict upbringing led to a voracious reading habit.
- Discovering contemporary poetry, specifically Yusuf Komunyaka's work, ignited his passion for writing.
