Poetry Off the Shelf
Poetry Foundation
Producer Helena de Groot talks to poets about language, dreams, love and loss, identity, connection, anger, discomfort, the creative process, the state of the world and the world of the soul. Hard conversations are welcomed—laughter is, too.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 19, 2025 • 49min
A New Leaf
KB Brookins on change, gym bros, and the stories that haven't been told.
Aug 5, 2025 • 47min
Sleep and Surrender
Drew Ackerman on insomnia, late-night radio, and soothing his inner cynic.
Jul 22, 2025 • 45min
Museum of Stories
In this engaging discussion, Shin Yu Pai, a talented author and the voice behind the podcast 10,000 Things, delves into the emotional landscape of personal breakups and professional upheavals. She shares her reflections on storytelling within the Asian American community, highlighting how personal artifacts connect us. Pai also explores the significance of preserving memories in art and poetry, alongside the complexities of repatriating cultural artifacts. The conversation beautifully intertwines resilience, creativity, and the power of narratives in shaping our identities.
Jul 8, 2025 • 54min
The Last Touch
Alina Stefanescu on ruins, fear of flying, and life in the Romanian Republic of Alabama.
Jun 24, 2025 • 55min
Touch the Moon
Philip Hoare on William Blake, revolution, and swimming in the dark.
Jun 10, 2025 • 46min
Growing Sideways
Stephanie Burt on queer time, glass dildos, and making it up as you go.
May 27, 2025 • 52min
Forty Years in Nappies
Lauren K. Watel on blooming late, showing off, and the question of what's for dinner.
May 13, 2025 • 52min
Stones in the Shed
A.E. Stallings on shipwrecks, daylight robbery, and the air in 19th century Athens.
May 9, 2025 • 7min
Martha Silano’s “Once”
A reading in memory of Martha Silano.
Apr 29, 2025 • 48min
After a Bad Dream
Darius Atefat-Peckham on crocheting, masculinity, and the aftermath of loss.
