The New Yorker: Poetry

Jericho Brown Reads Elizabeth Alexander

14 snips
Feb 26, 2025
Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Jericho Brown joins Kevin Young to discuss the powerful works of Elizabeth Alexander. They explore the emotional depth of Alexander's poem 'When?', reflecting on its significance in Black poetry and culture. Jericho shares insights into his own piece 'Colosseum,' emphasizing the intimate connections forged through personal storytelling. The conversation touches on themes of love, identity, and the influence of Southern culture, illustrating how friendships shape a poet's journey and the enduring legacy of powerful literary figures.
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ANECDOTE

First New Yorker Poem

  • Jericho Brown encountered "When" by Elizabeth Alexander early in his career.
  • It was the first New Yorker poem he recognized as such, sparking his poetic journey.
INSIGHT

Power of "When"

  • "When" is a powerful sonnet about the AIDS epidemic, embodying both music and grief.
  • The poem's ending acts as a syllabus, urging readers to explore Black literature.
INSIGHT

Pride in Poetry

  • Reading good poems evokes pride, similar to witnessing Simone Biles or Serena Williams' achievements.
  • This feeling can be a measure of a poem's effectiveness.
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