The Daily Poem
Goldberry Studios
The Daily Poem offers one essential poem each weekday morning. From Shakespeare and John Donne to Robert Frost and Emily Dickinson, The Daily Poem curates a broad and generous audio anthology of the best poetry ever written, read-aloud by David Kern and an assortment of various contributors. Some lite commentary is included and the shorter poems are often read twice, as time permits.
The Daily Poem is presented by Goldberry Studios. dailypoempod.substack.com
The Daily Poem is presented by Goldberry Studios. dailypoempod.substack.com
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 5, 2025 • 5min
George Starbuck's "Sonnet with a Different Letter at the End of Every Line"
Explore the playful genius of George Starbuck as the podcast delves into his inventive sonnet, structured with a letter twist at every line's end. Discover how Starbuck's background and notable influences shaped his witty, protest-laden poetry. The discussion reveals language's dynamic nature, likening it to the thrill of testing a fast car. The host reads the sonnet aloud, inviting listeners into the rhythm and charm of Starbuck's work, which masterfully blends humor with deeper reflections on society and personal themes.
Nov 3, 2025 • 7min
Robert Frost's "My November Guest"
Dive into the contemplative mood of November with a beautiful recitation of Robert Frost's 'My November Guest.' Explore the intriguing ambiguity of the poem's central figure, questioning whether 'she' represents a person or sorrow itself. The discussion unpacks the dynamic relationship between the speaker and the guest, revealing layers of separation and reconnection. Formal patterns in the poem echo these themes, culminating in an unresolved yet striking sentiment that lingers long after the reading.
Oct 31, 2025 • 4min
Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings' "Lemon Pie"
Explore the spooky themes of a tough crust in Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings' whimsical poem. The narrator delves into Rawlings' career and her playful use of light verse. Enjoy a humorous analysis of the poem's poetic structure and learn about its charming mock-epic tone. Reflect on baking as a way to connect with neighbors, alongside a nostalgic Halloween story. Two readings of the poem provide a delightful experience, making it a treat for poetry lovers.
Oct 29, 2025 • 2min
Seamus Heaney's "Follower"
Today’s poem reminds us that we are destined to become the parents of our parents. (I also dedicate it to a child who makes me feel better about that arrangement.) Happy reading! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dailypoempod.substack.com/subscribe
Oct 27, 2025 • 9min
Gerard Manley Hopkins' "Spring and Fall"
Why do we hate change? Today’s poem hazards a guess. Happy reading. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dailypoempod.substack.com/subscribe
Oct 24, 2025 • 2min
Ogden Nash's "A Lady Who Thinks She Is Thirty"
Today’s poem may be one of the most poem-y poems Nash ever wrote. Happy reading. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dailypoempod.substack.com/subscribe
Oct 22, 2025 • 5min
Wendell Berry's "Sabbath Poem III, 1994"
In today’s poem Berry draws King Lear into his sabbath reflections. Happy reading. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dailypoempod.substack.com/subscribe
Oct 20, 2025 • 4min
R. S. Thomas' "The Fisherman"
Today’s poem typifies the earthy clarity that Welsh poet R. S. Thomas perfected in his verse. Happy reading. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dailypoempod.substack.com/subscribe
Oct 17, 2025 • 4min
J. R. R. Tolkien's "The Root of the Boot"
Today’s poem traveled across many years and iterations to finally end up on the tongue of Samwise Gamgee in The Fellowship of the Ring. Happy reading! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dailypoempod.substack.com/subscribe
Oct 15, 2025 • 6min
Alfred, Lord Tennyson's "The Charge of the Light Brigade"
Today’s poem is both metrical marvel and moving memorial. Happy reading. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dailypoempod.substack.com/subscribe
