The New Yorker: Poetry

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.'

Amy Woolard reads 'Via Negativa' by Charles Wright, discussing its spiritual and Virginia-centric themes. They explore the elegance and complexity of poetry analysis, delving into the unspeakable spiritual landscape. Themes of love, loss, place, and belonging are vividly explored in the poems, offering insights into life's uncertainties and the creation of meaningful art.

Clint Smith's poem 'Chaos Theory' is read by Major Jackson, discussing the impact of 'what ifs' on life paths and destiny. Major reflects on the power of poetry in his life and the communal joy it brings.

José Antonio Rodríguez discusses the profound beauty of Naomi Shihab Nye's poem 'World of the Future We Thirsted', exploring themes of environmental neglect and desperation. He also reads his own poem 'Tender' reflecting on familial dynamics and tenderness amidst adversity.

Ada Limón, the Poet Laureate, reads poems by Carrie Fountain and herself, exploring themes of self-acceptance, human connection, emotional impact, and the multifaceted meanings of titles. The podcast also delves into the fusion of poetry and nature, unveiling a nature poetry project that connects personal experiences in nature with cosmic themes.

Donika Kelly, award-winning poet, reads Mary Oliver's '100 White-Sided Dolphins' and her own poem 'Sixteen Center'. They discuss nature's beauty, poetic structure, family history, and the power of storytelling through poetry.

Richie Hofmann and Henri Cole explore themes of darkness, desire, and self-reflection in their poems. They analyze the symbolism of a bear in nature, the complexities of second love, and the nuances of young love and rebellion. The discussion delves into the depth of language, emotions, and immortality in poetry.