Search

This article, titled "POEM IN WHICH I WRITE US INTO EPISODES OF THE SOPRANOS: For Christina," is a poem by P. Scott Cunningham. The poem imagines the author and his partner being inserted into various episodes of the television show The Sopranos. Each episode is described briefly, highlighting the presence of the author and his partner in the background or as part of the storyline. The poem explores themes of love, relationships, and the desire to be part of a fictional world. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on the writer's experiences at Wesleyan College in Macon, Georgia. He encompassing topics such as the evolving identity of the college in the early 1970s, the impact of renowned poet Richard Wilbur as a mentor, and the writer's pursuit of poetry while reflecting on transformative moments, including an unconventional trip to Concord, Massachusetts during the bicentennial celebration.

"Black Buffalo Woman: An Introduction to the Poetry and Poetics of Lucille Clifton" by Kazim Ali is an enlightening analysis of the major themes and literary techniques in the poetry of Lucille Clifton. Ali explores how Clifton's use of the first person in her poem "atlantic is a sea of bones" highlights the ongoing repercussions of American slavery. He also discusses Clifton's portrayal of a Black woman in a position of privilege and power in her poem "if i stand in my window," challenging the sexualization and dehumanization of Black bodies. Ali's close readings reveal the subtle complexities of Clifton's poetry and make a strong case for the revival of interest in her work. [Extracted from the article]

The article recounts the discovery of a handwritten poem by Philip Larkin in a book owned by the author's father, hinting at a personal connection between Larkin and the author's family. Topics discussed include the significance of the discovered poem, potential influences on Larkin's work, and insights into his poetic evolution.

The author reflects on the enduring challenges and changes in the field of poetry and publishing as they prepare to leave their editorial office on Cross Street and include the shift in cultural and political pressures on writers, the evolving nature of controversial issues in literature.

The article explores the legacy of poet David Wright through his correspondence with Julian Orde Abercrombie, shedding light on their friendship and Orde's poetry, culminating in the forthcoming publication of her collection "Conjurors." Topics discussed include the significance of Wright's advocacy for Orde's work, the slow process of editing and publishing poetry, and the enduring impact of mid-twentieth-century poets on contemporary literature.

The article focuses on the life and legacy of poet Sjohnna McCray, emphasizing his poetic exploration of identity and family complexities in his award-winning collection "Rapture." Topics include his biracial upbringing, the impact of his mother's mental illness, and his quest for self-acceptance through poetry.

The article offers information on using poetry to motivate and inspire students during difficult times. Topics include the author's preference for teaching poetry in January due to its conducive atmosphere for brooding metaphors and imagery, the emotional exhaustion of students in January 2021 following a year of political unrest and Covid lockdowns, and the effectiveness of using Naomi Shihab Nye's poem "Burning the Old Year" to help students process their emotions and seek a fresh start.

A study conducted by the University of Wroclaw in Poland explores two poetic pieces related to the Battle of Ula, a significant event in the war between Moscow and Livonia. The research discusses the connection between Jan Kochanowski's trifle III 51 and Maciej Stryjkowski's poem, both of which are influenced by the Battle of Ula. The study focuses on the description and structure of Stryjkowski's poem. The research has been peer-reviewed and can be accessed through the journal Pamietnik Literacki. [Extracted from the article]

The article recounts the life and literary contributions of poet Guy Goffette, highlighting his upbringing in a rural working-class family near three borders, his prolific career as a poet and editor, and his distinctive style characterized by lyricism and a warmth of spokenness. Topics discussed include Goffette's literary achievements, his poetic philosophy influenced by Verlaine, and his return to old poems during illness, culminating in the publication of "French Toast" amidst the pandemic.

This article discusses the life and work of Gregory Blackstock, an internationally recognized "outsider artist" from Seattle. Blackstock, who was neurodivergent and experienced autism spectrum disorder, found order and expression through his art. He created hundreds of catalog-like drawings on various subjects, including landmarks, pianos, camels, carrots, and early Boeing jets. Blackstock's artwork gained recognition and was featured in exhibitions, art fairs, and museums. He passed away in 2023, leaving behind a legacy of unique artistic expression. The article also briefly mentions the First World Flight Monument in Seattle and the superstitions of the pilots involved in the flight. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Poland explores the theme of decay in the poetry of Kazimierz Przerwa-Tetmajer. The research focuses on the concept of repulsion and its role in the poet's work, particularly the fear of the self. The study analyzes Tetmajer's poetry through the lens of affective studies and examines various aspects of decay, including repulsion to life, landscapes of decay, repulsion figures, decay of the self, repulsion of the bodily, and decay of memory and memories. The research has been peer-reviewed and can be accessed through the journal Pamietnik Literacki. [Extracted from the article]

An interview with haiku poet and environmentalist Anne Burgevin is presented. She discusses her use of haiku in teaching creative writing and fostering environmental awareness among students. Topics include Burgevin's discovery of haiku, the challenges of transitioning from "me" focused to "not me" focused poetry, and her approach to teaching haiku to students of different age groups, emphasizing sensory experiences and cultural connections.

This article provides a review of two recently published poetry collections: "Each Luminous Thing" by Stacie Cassarino and "The Upstate" by Lindsay Turner. Both collections explore themes of love, motherhood, and the beauty of nature. Cassarino's poems focus on the experience of queer, single motherhood, while Turner's work combines formal innovation with social consciousness. The poems in both collections offer prayers, spells, and talismans for what is cherished and beautiful, despite life's challenges. Additionally, the article discusses "The Upstate," a collection by Lisa Russ Spaar, which explores vulnerability, environmental degradation, and personal despair in the Appalachian South. The poems also reflect on the speaker's emotional state influenced by living in a politically divided area during a time of economic disparities. Despite the darkness and anxiety present in the poems, moments of beauty and hope are also found, reflecting Spaar's deep concern for others and desire for change. [Extracted from the article]

"Journey Bread: New & Selected Poems" by Ruth Thompson is a collection of tender and reflective poems that explore personal history, myth, and meditations on nature. The poems serve as a literary mosaic, combining recollections, vignettes, and retellings of familiar stories. Thompson's verse is described as plantlike, with deep roots and verdant imagery. Memory is a major theme in the collection, with the poems capturing both the faltering and preservation of memories. Overall, "Journey Bread" is a finely crafted collection that invites readers to observe the details in both the poems and the world around them. [Extracted from the article]

"Middling Wood & Other Poems" by Valentin Per Lind is a collection of poems that draws inspiration from Romantic poetry styles and pagan themes. The poems cover a diverse range of subjects and themes, including politically incisive critiques and bucolic fantasies. The title poem explores the concept of self-reflection and spiritual fulfillment through a liminal space between life and death. The collection also touches on topics of sexuality, love, and spirituality. Overall, the poems are described as lustful, erudite, and inventive, appealing to fans of Michael R. Burch and George Sterling. [Extracted from the article]

"Pet Poems (also not just pets)" is a collection of simple and accessible poetry by Sean Petrie, accompanied by vibrant watercolor illustrations by Amanda Hoxworth. The poems explore the thoughts and activities of various animals, with a focus on dogs. The collection also includes poems about non-pet animals, such as wolves, fawns, and hippos. The poems aim to provide readers with a closer connection to animals and offer heartening and thought-provoking insights. The book is praised for its elegant poems and dazzling artwork. [Extracted from the article]

Pet Poems Plus: How to Write Poems about Pets (also not Just pets) is an interactive guide by Sean Petrie that aims to teach younger readers how to write creative poetry. The book includes hands-on material and colorful illustrations by Amanda Hoxworth. Petrie covers various types of poems and provides tips on incorporating literary devices such as similes, metaphors, and personification. The guide encourages individuality and offers numerous prompts for inspiration. Overall, "Pet Poems Plus" is a helpful and engaging resource for young writers interested in exploring the art of poetry. [Extracted from the article]