Beyond the Verse

In this special bonus episode of Beyond the Verse, hosts Joe and Maiya take on Taylor Swift's incredible legacy, delving into an insightful conversation with Kristie Frederick-Daugherty - editor of the poetry anthology 'Invisible Strings: 113 Poets Respond to the Songs of Taylor Swift' - to discuss poetry, music, and the 'invisible strings' that connect it all. Frederick-Daugherty discusses her long-standing admiration for Taylor Swift and the conception of the anthology, which allows contemporary poets to engage deeply with the pop superstar's lyricism. Through this unique collection, Frederick-Daugherty successfully brings together both emerging poets and globally renowned voices, responding to Swift’s themes like heartbreak, self-sabotage, and reinvention. The three discuss and explore the educational value of Swift's work, emphasizing her role in encouraging analytical thinking among her fanbase, particularly the younger generation, by integrating close reading of lyrics into a mainstream context. The episode also includes readings from the anthology, such as Frederick-Daugherty's own poem 'No Invitations,' which interweaves themes of love and self-discovery, alongside A.E. Stalling's 'The Gift of Apollo,' Ilya Kaminsky's 'On Flight', Maggie Smith's 'Pull' and Oluwaseun Olayiwola's 'Entanglement'. Throughout the discussion, the relevance and impact of the classical world in the context of modern poetry are explored, with references to figures like Cassandra and themes such as prophecy and public scrutiny. The conversation also touches on the broader cultural and community implications of Swift's Eras Tour, highlighting the collective experience of shared language in a live setting. As the episode concludes, listeners are encouraged to explore further readings and discover the hidden layers of meaning within both the anthology and Taylor Swift's discography, fostering a greater appreciation for the interplay between poetry and popular music. To learn more about Kristie Frederick-Daughtery, check out her website, the 113 Poets Foundation, which aims to support poets and small literary presses, and her recently published collection with Ballatyne Books/Penguin Random House. Send us a textSupport the showAs always, for the ultimate poetry experience, join Poetry+ and explore all things poetry at PoemAnalysis.com.

In this week’s episode of Beyond the Verse, the official podcast of PoemAnalysis.com and Poetry+, hosts Joe and Maiya delve into Chinua Achebe’s 'Love Cycle,' an evocative exploration of Igbo tradition, cosmology, and the dynamics of relationships.The episode opens with a deep dive into Achebe’s life, tracing his journey from a colonized Nigeria to the publication of his renowned novel, "Things Fall Apart," and its influence on global perceptions of Africa. The hosts then analyze how 'Love Cycle' reflects the interplay of Igbo mythology, colonial history, and universal themes of love and conflict. They highlight the portrayal of the sun and moon as metaphors for a toxic, cyclical relationship, touching on gendered archetypes, elemental forces, and Achebe’s masterful blending of cultural traditions.Throughout the discussion, Joe and Maiya uncover the symbolic resonance of Achebe’s work—balancing aggression and affection, permanence and change, and the historical tensions between colonizer and colonized. They also draw comparisons to poets like William Butler Yeats and Emily Dickinson, illustrating Achebe’s global literary connections.Poetry+ users can access exclusive PDFs of Achebe’s 'Love Cycle':Full PDF GuidePDF Snapshot GuideFor more on Chinua Achebe’s poetry and its broader cultural impact, visit PoemAnalysis.com, where you can also explore extensive resources in our PDF Learning Library, browse hundreds of analyzed poems, and much more – see our Chinua Achebe PDF Guide.Tune in and discover:The rich cosmological imagery in Igbo traditionAchebe’s nuanced portrayal of love as cyclical and complexThe intersection of postcolonial themes with personal relationshipsHow Achebe’s intertextuality shapes his unique poetic voiceSend us a textSupport the showAs always, for the ultimate poetry experience, join Poetry+ and explore all things poetry at PoemAnalysis.com.

In this week’s episode of Beyond the Verse, the official podcast of PoemAnalysis.com and Poetry+, hosts Joe and Maiya delve into the hauntingly serene world of Emily Dickinson with a close reading and analysis of her iconic poem, ‘Because I Could Not Stop for Death.’ They analyze Dickinson’s portrayal of death as a kind companion, exploring themes of immortality, religious context, and classical allusions, particularly the comparison to Charon, the ferryman of Greek mythology. The discussion highlights Dickinson's unique position in the literary canon, her secluded life, and how her personal experiences and religious influences shaped her contemplative writing style.The hosts also address the challenges of interpreting her work, given the posthumous publication of many of her poems, emphasizing her significant impact on American poetry despite her reclusive life. Additionally, they touch on the broader implications of analyzing posthumously published works, comparing Dickinson's isolated genius to contemporaries like Walt Whitman and Robert Frost, and exploring how her intimate, introspective voice has defined her lasting literary legacy.Poetry+ users can access exclusive PDFs of ‘Because I Could Not Stop for Death’:​Full PDF GuidePDF Snapshot GuidePrintable Poem PDFwith Rhyme Schemewith Meter Syllableswith both Rhyme and MeterFor more on Emily Dickinson’s poetry, visit PoemAnalysis.com, where you can also explore extensive resources in our PDF Learning Library, browse hundreds of analyzed poems, and much more – see our Emily Dickinson PDF Guide.Tune in and discover:The gentle yet radical portrayal of death as a companionDickinson’s blending of Christian and pagan influencesThe power of meter to evoke a hymn-like quSend us a textSupport the showAs always, for the ultimate poetry experience, join Poetry+ and explore all things poetry at PoemAnalysis.com.

In this week’s episode of Beyond the Verse, the official podcast of PoemAnalysis.com and Poetry+, hosts Joe and Maiya delve into the world of Percy Bysshe Shelley with a close reading and analysis of his 1818 sonnet, 'Ozymandias.' They explore the poem’s profound reflections on power, legacy, and the inevitable passage of time as Shelley critiques the hubris of rulers who believe themselves immortal.Maiya and Joe unpack Shelley’s layered portrayal of decay, the influence of Romantic ideals, and the broader implications of empire in a rapidly changing world. They reflect on Shelley’s unique position as a radical voice in the Romantic era, questioning the nature of power and the forces of art that survive long after empires crumble. In this journey, they discuss the deeper meanings of Shelley’s “colossal wreck” and how the poem resonates with contemporary reflections on history and art.Poetry+ users can access exclusive PDFs of 'Ozymandias':​Full PDF Guide​PDF Snapshot Guide​Printable Poem PDF​with Rhyme Scheme​with Meter Syllables​with both Rhyme and Meter​For more on Percy Bysshe Shelley's poetry, visit PoemAnalysis.com, where you can explore extensive resources in our PDF Learning Library, explore a wide range of analyzed poems, with thousands of PDFs, and much more - see our Percy Bysshe Shelley PDF Guide.This episode underscores why 'Ozymandias' remains a staple in literary studies and its enduring relevance in understanding human ambition and mortality.Tune in and discover:The timeless significance of Shelley’s depiction of OzymandiasShelley’s critique of empire through irony and structureThe influence of Shelley’s radical Romantic beliefsHow Shelley’s themes continue to speak to us todaySend us a textSupport the showAs always, for the ultimate poetry experience, join Poetry+ and explore all things poetry at PoemAnalysis.com.

In this week’s episode of Beyond the Verse, the official podcast of PoemAnalysis.com and Poetry+, Joe and Maya explore William Blake’s 1794 poem, 'The Tyger,' from his collection 'Songs of Innocence and of Experience.' They dive deep into the complex symbolism of the tiger, discussing its contrast with 'The Lamb,' another of Blake’s celebrated works, and exploring the moral questions posed by its creation.Maya and Joe reflect on Blake’s fascination with the tension between innocence and experience, the Industrial Revolution’s impact on his worldview, and his unique portrayal of creation and divine mystery. Together, they unravel Blake’s nuanced perspective on power, the Promethean myth, and humanity’s ability to create both beauty and terror. The episode also highlights Blake’s radical views, his artistry, and his influential collection, 'Songs of Innocence and Experience.'Get exclusive PDFs on 'The Tyger' available to Poetry+ users:​Full PDF Guide​​PDF Snapshot Guide​​Poem Printable PDF​​with Rhyme Scheme​​with Meter Syllables​​with both Rhyme and Meter​​William Blake PDF GuideTune in and discover:The symbolic meaning of the tiger in Blake’s workBlake’s radical views on innocence and experiencePromethean mythology and its relevance to 'The Tyger'Why Blake’s themes resonate in today’s worldSend us a textSupport the showAs always, for the ultimate poetry experience, join Poetry+ and explore all things poetry at PoemAnalysis.com.

In this week’s episode of Beyond the Verse, the official podcast of PoemAnalysis.com and Poetry+, Joe takes us on a journey through the world of William Wordsworth’s beloved poem, 'I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud,' also known as 'Daffodils.' Exploring the poem’s portrayal of nature’s serenity, Joe and Maiya delve into Wordsworth’s life, his connection to the Lake District, and how these elements shaped his vision of solitude and joy.They discuss the symbolism of the daffodils, the contrasts between solitude and bliss, and Wordsworth’s collaboration with his wife, Mary Hutchinson, uncovering her significant influence on the poem. The episode also offers insights into Romanticism, Wordsworth’s reflections on urbanization, and the lasting impact of Romantic ideals on modern literature.Get exclusive PDFs on 'I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud' available to Poetry+ users:Full PDF GuidePoetry Snapshot PDFPoem Printable PDFwith Rhyme Schemewith Meter Syllableswith both Rhyme and MeterUse the code 'WORDSWORTH20' on the Poetry+ Checkout (Monthly/Yearly) to save 20% - applicable for the first 10 users.For more on Wordsworth’s works, visit PoemAnalysis.com, where you can explore extensive resources in our PDF Learning Library, explore a wide range of analyzed poems, with thousands of PDFs, and much more. For example, see the below relevant and useful PDF Guides:William Wordsworth PDF GuideRomanticism Movement PDF GuideTune in and Discover:The symbolic meaning of daffodils in RomanticismWordsworth’s vision of solitude and natureHow Mary Hutchinson contributed to the poemWhy Wordsworth’s work remains imSend us a textSupport the showAs always, for the ultimate poetry experience, join Poetry+ and explore all things poetry at PoemAnalysis.com.

In this week’s episode of Beyond the Verse, the official podcast of PoemAnalysis.com and Poetry+, Joe and Maiya delve into Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s timeless Sonnet 43, ‘How Do I Love Thee?,’ exploring its profound portrayal of love’s transcendence and the poet’s relationship with Robert Browning.They discuss the sonnet’s enduring appeal, from its heartfelt imagery to its structure as a Petrarchan sonnet, positioning it as a love letter between two literary giants. Joe and Maya examine Barrett Browning’s personal struggles with chronic illness and social constraints, which amplify the depth of her love, creating a unique contrast between spiritual devotion and physical limitations.Get exclusive PDFs on 'Sonnet 43' available to Poetry+ users:Full PDF GuidePoetry Snapshot PDFPoem Printable PDFwith Rhyme Schemewith Meter Syllableswith both Rhyme and MeterFor more on Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s poetry, visit PoemAnalysis.com, where you can explore extensive resources in our PDF Learning Library, explore a wide range of analyzed poems, with thousands of PDFs, and much more - see our Elizabeth Barrett Browning PDF Guide.Tune in and Discover:The role of faith and marriage vows in 'Sonnet 43'The impact of Barrett Browning’s health on her writingInsights into Victorian literary couples and their influenceWhy 'Sonnet 43' remains a popular reading at weddingsSend us a textSupport the showAs always, for the ultimate poetry experience, join Poetry+ and explore all things poetry at PoemAnalysis.com.

In this week’s episode of Beyond the Verse, the official podcast of PoemAnalysis.com and Poetry+, Joe and Maya explore Wole Soyinka’s powerful poem 'Telephone Conversation,' delving into themes of white subjectivity, racial politics, and the power dynamics embedded in language.The duo discusses the significance of Soyinka’s lyric ‘I,’ addressing the poet’s bold reclamation of personal voice, the systemic racial barriers of 1960s Britain, and the stark contrasts between the speaker’s calm demeanor and the landlady’s prejudice. Together, they unpack how Soyinka skillfully uses the poem’s structure—its caesura and capitalized dialogue—to convey a sense of social disconnect and power imbalance.Exclusive resources for Poetry+ users on 'Telephone Conversation' include:Full PDF GuidePoetry Snapshot PDFWole Soyinka Poet PDF GuideExplore more about Wole Soyinka’s work and find thousands of analyzed poems on PoemAnalysis.com.Tune in and Discover:Soyinka’s critique of British society and racial prejudice in the 1960sThe intricate play of silence and power in Telephone ConversationHow Soyinka’s Nigerian identity and his lived experience influenced his poetryListen now and deepen your understanding of this strikingly relevant poem.Send us a textSupport the showAs always, for the ultimate poetry experience, join Poetry+ and explore all things poetry at PoemAnalysis.com.

In this episode of 'Beyond the Verse,' podcast of PoemAnalysis.com and Poetry+, hosts Joe and Maiya present a detailed exploration of Edgar Allan Poe's 'The Raven.' They investigate the poem's intricate structure, analyzing its use of trochees, internal rhyme, and Gothic elements, touching on how 'The Raven,' published in 1845, contrasts with Poe's earlier works through its rhyme scheme and introspective themes, marking a significant shift in his literary approach. Get exclusive PDFs on ‘The Raven’ available to Poetry+ users:Full PDF GuidePoetry Snapshot PDFPoem Printable PDFwith Rhyme Schemewith Meter SyllablesWith both Rhyme and MeterFor more insights into Poe's poetry, visit PoemAnalysis.com, where you can explore a wide range of analyzed poems, with thousands of PDFs, resources in our extensive PDF Learning Library, and more - see our Edgar Allan Poe PDF Guide.The discussion delves into the poem's symbolic components, such as the raven perched on a bust of Pallas Athena, exploring classical allusions and the subverted portrayal of the raven as a symbol of wisdom and prophecy. The hosts also consider the poem's position in Gothic literature, highlighting tropes of isolation, the supernatural, and its alignment with works like 'Frankenstein' and 'The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.' They draw connections to classical myths, notably Orpheus and Eurydice, and explore related works in romantic and literary traditions. As a bonus topic, the episode addresses the poem’s mixed critical reception and its evolution into a beloved classic, noting its influence on later authors like Sylvia Plath and H.P. Lovecraft.Send us a textSupport the showAs always, for the ultimate poetry experience, join Poetry+ and explore all things poetry at PoemAnalysis.com.

In this episode of 'Beyond the Verse,' the official podcast of PoemAnalysis.com and Poetry+, podcast hosts Joe and Maiya delve into the poem 'An Introduction' by Kamala Das. They explore the poem's themes of female liberation, colonial oppression, and the importance of language, contextualizing Das's 1965 work as a pivotal moment in Indian literature. They touch on Kamala Das's background as an Anglo-Indian poet during the end of British colonial rule in India, her impact on Indian feminism, and her status as a major confessional poet alongside figures like Sylvia Plath. Get exclusive PDFs on ‘An Introduction’ available to Poetry+ users:Full PDF GuidePoetry Snapshot PDFFor more insights into Das' poetry, visit PoemAnalysis.com, where you can explore a wide range of analyzed poems, with thousands of PDFs, resources in our extensive PDF Learning Library, and more - see our Kamala Das PDF Guide.The podcast also examines the poem's structure and language, noting its use of free verse and deliberate grammatical choices to counter traditional norms, aligning with the confessional movement's focus on personal and taboo subject matter. Joe and Maiya highlight Das's nuanced use of English to convey identity complexity, discussing its significance in a post-colonial context. The episode also explores references to literary inspirations like Langston Hughes and Walt Whitman, examining how Das's poem dialogues with these writers in her closing lines. This episode invites listeners to reflect on the deep contrasts presented within the poem and Das's portrayal of a multifaceted feminine identity.Send us a textSupport the showAs always, for the ultimate poetry experience, join Poetry+ and explore all things poetry at PoemAnalysis.com.