The New Yorker: Poetry
John Ashbery Reads Charles Simic
Feb 21, 2014
Charles Simic, a celebrated poet known for his surreal style, joins Paul Muldoon, poetry editor at The New Yorker, for an insightful discussion. They dive into Simic's captivating poem 'The Lunatic', exploring its humor and everyday language. The conversation also touches on the depth of 'Gravy for the Prisoners', emphasizing its thematic richness and the power of puns. Throughout, they celebrate the spontaneity of poetry, highlighting the unpredictable joy in the creative process and inviting listeners to embrace the surprises that come with writing.
10:54
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast emphasizes the coexistence of humor and seriousness in poetry, showcasing how both elements enrich the reader's experience.
- John Ashbery's creative process highlights the spontaneous nature of writing, illustrating how ambiguity in language invites diverse interpretations of poetry.
Deep dives
Exploring the Complexity of Humor in Poetry
The discussion highlights the interplay between humor and seriousness in poetry, particularly through the lens of Charles Simic's poem 'The Lunatic.' The poem's opening line, suggesting the same snowflake keeps falling, evokes both lightness and a subtle sense of absurdity, raising questions about interpretation. Ashbury argues that poetry can and should encompass a wide range of emotions and themes, including humor, contrasting the common belief that poetry must be serious. This perspective aligns with the notion that poetry reflects the complexities and nuances of everyday life, where humor naturally coexists with deeper sentiments.
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