Hanif Abdurraqib

Hanif Abdurraqib, an award-winning poet and cultural critic, dives deep into themes of obsession and personal history. He reminisces about the nostalgic charm of mixtapes and the legacy of his grandmother’s music curation. The conversation explores the emotional toll of creativity and the balance between artistic expression and well-being. Abdurraqib emphasizes the significance of authenticity in writing and the role of family storytelling in shaping identity. He redefines obsession as crucial to the creative process, enriching the narrative journey.

Join poet and critic Hanif Abdurraqib as he dives into the emo phenomenon of My Chemical Romance. He shares his journey discovering the band and reflects on their theatrical performances and profound lyrical themes like mortality and identity. The discussion highlights the impact of their aesthetic evolution, particularly during 'The Black Parade' era. Hanif emphasizes how the band's music resonates with themes of alienation and community, celebrating the loyal fandom that continues to thrive through nostalgia.