Poet Charles Simic reads and discusses Sharon Olds' poem 'Her Birthday as Ashes in Seawater' emphasizing themes of family and loss. The conversation explores emotional depth, mother-child bonds, and philosophical themes in poetry.

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.