The New Yorker: Poetry

Poets Stephen Dunn and Paul Muldoon delve into the art of poetry, discussing Donald Justice's teaching style, the balance between intention and language in writing, and themes of happiness and resilience. They explore the influence of specific words in poems and highlight the technical prowess and emotional depth found in Justice and Dunn's work.

Renowned poet J. D. McClatchy and the host discuss James Merrill's '164 East 72nd Street' exploring wealth, city life, and personal struggles. They analyze the innovative use of language in poetry and reflect on themes of renewal in McClatchy's poem 'CaĞaloĞlu'. The podcast also touches on W. B. Yeats' poetic style and features readings of Merrill and McClatchy's works.

Renowned poets Ellen Bass and Adam Zagajewski discuss themes of mutability, beauty in a shattered world, loss, and lustrousness in their selected poems. The discussion includes tarot decks, herbal remedies, oysters in poetry, and upcoming episodes on new Iliad translation and Adam Driver's performance.

Poet Meghan O'Rourke and host Paul Muldoon discuss John Ashbery's 'Tapestry' and Meghan's 'Apartment Living.' They explore Ashbery's intricate imagery and emphasis on language over definitive meaning. The podcast also delves into sensory symbolism, community storytelling, poetic inspiration from masters, and the evolution of literature.

Calvin Trillin discusses Ogden Nash's humor and style, challenging perceptions of light verse. Trillin's Y2K poem explores unfounded fears with humor. The podcast examines language humor in poetry, including French's comedic effect.

Rosanna Warren and Ellen Bryant Voigt discuss themes of marriage, danger, and the interplay of animal and human dynamics in poetry. They explore the emotional depths of relationships and nature, reflecting on the profound influences of New England landscapes, birch trees, and the creative process of crafting authentic poetry.

Poet Sophie Cabot Black reads and discusses poems by Donald Hall, including 'The Ship Pounding' and her own 'Chemotherapy.' They explore themes of illness, mortality, and the power of poetry to connect and comfort in times of need.

Matthea Harvey joins host Paul Muldoon to discuss and read 'Vixen' by W. S. Merwin, exploring themes of nature and life. They delve into the power of poetry, visual elements in writing, and Matthea Harvey's unique visual poem involving ice cubes and text elements.

Michael Robbins, an accomplished poet, joins the podcast to read John Ashbery's 'Myrtle' and his own 'Country Music.' They explore the complexity of Ashbery's poetry, discuss the themes and influences in 'Myrtle,' and delve into the process of writing 'Country Music.' The conversation highlights the humor, nuances, and personal inspirations found in contemporary poetry.

Award-winning poet Ada Limón and featured poet Jennifer L. Knox explore humor and deep themes in poetry, discussing the challenges and creativity behind crafting well-crafted poems. They also touch on the tradition of reading poetry aloud, the ambiguity in poem endings, and the multiple possibilities found in their works 'State Bird' and 'Pimp my Ride'.