The New Yorker: Poetry

David St. John, a renowned poet and editor, shares insights into the emotional depths of Larry Levis's work while also reading his own poem, 'The Shore.' The discussion reveals Levis's poignant reflections on memory and identity, weaving personal stories into broader themes. St. John explores the delicate art of compiling poetry, highlighting the intimate connections among poets. They also delve into forgiveness in contemporary poetry, showing how embracing memory can aid healing, enriching the landscape of personal and artistic growth.

Edward Hirsch, a celebrated American poet and essayist, joins Kevin Young to explore the evocative works of fellow poet Gerald Stern. They dive into Stern's '96 Vandam,' reflecting on themes of longing and urban intimacy amidst the chaotic backdrop of New York City. Hirsch shares his own piece, 'Man on a Fire Escape,' which captures memory and beauty in fleeting moments. The conversation reveals the transformative power of poetry, humor, and the intricate ties between art and life.

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.

Deborah Garrison, a respected poet and editor at Knopf, joins Kevin Young to delve into the anthology celebrating a century of poetry in The New Yorker. They explore how the anthology weaves personal connections to poetry through the decades. The conversation highlights the evolution of poetic voices and emotional expressions of love and loss, particularly in response to events like 9/11. With references to notable poets, they emphasize poetry's enduring power to articulate hope amid despair, resonating with the complexities of human experience.

Dobby Gibson, an acclaimed poet and recipient of multiple fellowships, joins the conversation to explore the intricate world of Diane Seuss’s poetry. They discuss the poignant themes of her sonnet 'I Have Slept in Many Places,' delving into its emotional depth and vivid imagery. Gibson shares insights on transforming chaos into creativity, emphasizing how humor intersects with darker themes in poetry. The duo highlights the vital role of verse in navigating uncertainty, making a compelling case for its relevance in our polarized world.

Rae Armantrout, a celebrated American poet and Pulitzer Prize winner, joins Kevin Young for a captivating dialogue. They explore Dorothea Lasky's poem 'Mother,' unraveling its themes of loss and maternal longing within a surreal landscape. Armantrout shares insights into her own poem 'Finally,' blending humor with the complexities of marriage. The discussion dives deep into the duality of love poetry, revealing how contrasting emotions illuminate profound truths, all while reflecting on poetry's role in personal and political landscapes.

Jim Moore, an accomplished poet with multiple awards and eight collections to his name, joins Kevin Young to delve into the emotional richness of poetry. They explore Jane Mead's poignant poem 'I Wonder If I Will Miss the Moss,' discussing themes of loss, belonging, and the transformative nature of walking. Moore also shares his own heartfelt piece 'Mother,' capturing the raw emotions tied to love and time. The conversation reflects on how poetry serves as a powerful tool for understanding personal experiences and navigating broader human connections.

Amber Tamblyn, a celebrated writer, director, and actor, joins poet Didi Jackson to explore the emotional layers of their works. They delve into the vibrant imagery and themes of loss in Jackson's poem "The Dahlias," emphasizing nature's cycles. Tamblyn shares insights from her poem "This Living," discussing love and grief's complexities. The pair also touch on the blend of humor and pain in poetry, highlighting the evolution of language and the dualities of human experience that shape storytelling.

Award-winning poet and translator Valzhyna Mort reads poems by Ukrainian poet Victoria Amelina and Polish poet Wisława Szymborska. They discuss the art of translation, the power of precision in naming horrors, and the importance of rhythm and repetition in poetry. The episode delves into themes of resistance, survival, and the complexity of sharing experiences through poetry.

Raymond Antrobus and John Lee Clark discuss tactile poetry, diverse voices in literature, sign language syntax, and the influence of music on Black British poetry. They explore sensory imageries, cultural influences on sign language, and the significance of their poems 'A Protactile Version of ‘Tintern Abbey’' and 'Signs Music.'