Words That Burn

The Music In This Week's Episode:

'Within Our Nature' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

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An Interview with Jamie McKendrick

Words That Burn

08/26/24 • 40 min

Exploring Poetry with Jamie McKendrick: Memory, Mortality, and Art

In this episode of 'Words That Burn', host Ben interviews Jamie McKendrick, one of Britain's leading poets and a foremost translator of Italian poetry. They walk through McKendrick's newest collection, 'Drypoint,' discussing themes of memory, mortality, art, and the intricate processes behind poetry writing. McKendrick shares insights into his fascination with etching, his (sometimes) laborious poetry process, and the interplay of ancient mythology with modern life. The episode also touches on broader themes like the nature of borders, the role of poetry in contemporary times, and the ecological concerns reflected in his work.

[00:00] Introduction to the Interview
[00:47] The Art of Etching and Poetry
[03:52] Themes of Memory and Mortality
[05:37] Crafting Poetry: Process and Criticism
[12:08] Intertextuality and Influences
[27:04] Liverpool's Influence and Historical Context
[30:17] Exploring Borders and Ownership
[34:44] Nature and Mythology in Poetry
[38:15] Conclusion and Final Thoughts

If you enjoyed this interview, or know someone who might, please consider sending it to them directly or leaving me a review wherever you listen.

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An Interview with Sam Riviere on AI In Poetry

Words That Burn

07/03/24 • 46 min

Last week I had an interview with the acclaimed poet Sam Riviere on his new collection Conflicted Copy. As AI technology continues to evolve, many artists feel apprehensive about its impact on their craft. However, Sam has chosen a different path by embracing AI as a unique writing companion, culminating in his innovative poetry collection, Conflicted Copy.

Join us as Sam shares his journey of curiosity and experimentation, exploring how he navigated the creative process with an earlier, less sophisticated AI model during the second wave of COVID-19. We discuss the blurred lines between human authorship and machine-generated text, the challenges of steering AI away from predictable patterns, and the unexpected beauty that emerges from these digital collaborations.

In our conversation, we touch on:

The inspiration behind Conflicted Copy and its unconventional creation.
The interplay between human intention and AI's linguistic capabilities.
The emotional resonance and aesthetic value found in AI's "hallucinations."
The broader implications of AI in the literary world and the future of creative writing.

Sam also gives us to a reading of "Safe Poem," a standout piece from his collection that encapsulates the mysterious and multifaceted nature of AI-assisted poetry.

Whether you're a poetry enthusiast, an AI aficionado, or simply curious about the future of artistic expression, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the collaborative possibilities between humans and machines. Tune in to discover how Sam Riviere is redefining the boundaries of poetry in the digital age.

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An Interview with Milena Williamson

Words That Burn

05/15/24 • 40 min

On this episode of Words That Burn, I feature the poetry of Milena Williamson, a celebrated poet and author of the haunting collection Into the Night That Flies So Fast published by Daedalus Press. In this episode, Milena shares her journey from Pennsylvania to Belfast, her academic and creative endeavours at Queen's University Belfast, and the deeply personal project that turned into her latest book.

Dive deep into the tragic yet intriguing history of Bridget Cleary, a figure from l Irish history, whose story inspired Milena's collection. Bridget's life, marked by education, independence, and a tragic end, serves as a canvas for Milena's exploration of historical voice and tragedy through poetry and drama.

Milena discusses the unique structure of her collection, blending poetry with theatrical monologues to breathe life into historical figures, each resonating with authentic voices filled with grief, guilt, and the nuances of rural Irish life. Discover how real-life interactions and in-depth research into Irish culture and historical events influenced her poems.

This episode also features Milena reading from her collection, including the powerful poem "Lawful," and discussing the impact of Shakespeare and other literary influences on her work. Gain insights into how she intertwines classical references with the modern-day challenges faced by her characters.

Don't miss this fascinating conversation about creativity, historical reflection, and the power of poetry to address profound human experiences. Tune in to understand how Milena Williamson makes history resonate with today's audience through her compelling narratives and lyrical prowess.

Listen and subscribe to "Words That Burn" for more episodes that delve into the minds of contemporary poets and writers. If you enjoyed the interview, please leave us a review and share the podcast to help us reach more listeners interested in the transformative power of poetry.

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The God of Stories by Ricardo Rowan Phillips

Words That Burn

06/19/24 • 19 min

In this episode, we delve into "The God of Stories," a poignant poem by Rowan Ricardo Phillips from his latest collection, Silver (2024). This piece captures the essence of creation myths and the search for meaning, offering a fresh perspective on how we, as humans, assign significance to gods and everyday achievements alike.

I take a look at the layers of Phillips' verse, exploring themes of perception, identity, and the fluidity of meaning. From the intriguing opening lines to the dense, imagery, I note how Phillips navigates between symbolism and allegory, encouraging us to embrace the transformative power of storytelling.

Discover how the poem's epiphanies and rich metaphors reflect a universal yearning for identity and understanding in a world that often feels void of concrete truths. This episode will guide you through the intricate interplay between seeing and hearing, truth and mystery, and the self-definition found through interpretation.

This poem is a profound meditation on the nature of understanding, as we uncover the liberating potential of ambiguity and the continuous shaping of identity through the stories we tell.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review and share it with fellow poetry enthusiasts.

*In the interests of full disclosure I was sent a copy of Silver for review.

The Music In This Week's Episode:

'Echoes' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

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Sceimhle by Nuala Ní Dhomhnaill

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Doineann by Caitlín Nic Íomhair

Words That Burn

03/13/24 • 16 min

Welcome to this special Seachtain Na Gaeilge edition of Words That Burn, where we dive deep into the heart of Irish poetry.

In this episode, we explore "Doineann" by Caitlín Nic Íomhair, a poignant piece that mirrors the seasonal changes with the personal and linguistic rebirths of its narrator. Translated by the celebrated Colette Bryce for the anthology Calling Cards, this poem is not just a call for the revival of the Irish language but a testament to the enduring connection between our the Irish language and identity.

As we navigate through Nic Íomhair's evocative imagery and Bryce's meticulous translation, we unpack the poem's layers, revealing its rich dialogue with nature, language, and decolonisation. This episode also reflects on my personal journey with the Irish language and the broader cultural conversation about its place in modern Ireland.

With Seachtain Na Gaeilge upon us, Doineann stands out as a beacon of hope and resilience, urging us to peel away the layers of imposed languages to reveal our true linguistic selves. Caitlín Nic Íomhair's work challenges us to embrace bilingualism not as an afterthought but as an integral part of our identity. This episode aims to shine a light on the transformative power of language and poetry in shaping our collective consciousness.

If you're passionate about poetry, language, or the rich tapestry of Irish culture, this episode is for you. Join us as we celebrate the beauty of Irish poetry and its profound impact on our identity and heritage.

If this episode resonates with you, please share it with friends, leave us a review, and join our conversation about the power of language and poetry. Your support helps us bring more enriching content to light.

Go raibh míle maith agat.

Other Gaeilge Poems From Words That Burn:

Conrioch by Ailbhe Ní Ghearbhuigh

The Music In This Week's Episode:

'The Long Dark' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

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Owning Everything by Leonard Cohen

Words That Burn

02/21/24 • 18 min

Enter the poetic world of Leonard Cohen with this special episode of Words That Burn, dedicated to the transformative power of love and mysticism in Cohen's work. In this episode, we unravel the layers of "Owning Everything," a poem that captures the essence of Cohen's early poetic ventures through its intricate blend of romantic mysticism, spirituality, and the profound connections between the divine and the mundane.

This is a very special episode dedicated to my gorgeous partner, Hannah. We both have a special place in our hearts for the works of Leonard Cohen and he was one of our first great shared loves.

Leonard Cohen, known for his cryptic and ethereal presence in the music and literary worlds, started his journey as a poet. His collections, including "Let Us Compare Mythologies," "The Spice Box of the Earth," and "Flowers for Hitler," laid the foundation for a career that would blend love, spirituality, and human experience into a unique artistic expression.

I explore how Cohen's work, deeply rooted in love's myriad forms—be it lust, romance, or religious transcendentalism—serves as a testament to his belief in the transformative power of love. Through "Owning Everything," Cohen delves into the intimate connection with the beloved, turning the world around him into an extension of this bond, where even the moon and the river carry the weight of his devotion.

Join me as I look at Cohen's evolution from a poet to a music icon, his impact on the singer-songwriter movement, and how his exploration of love and mysticism continues to resonate with audiences today. This episode is not just an analysis of Cohen's work but a tribute to the enduring legacy of a literary and musical legend whose themes of love and divine encounter remain as relevant as ever.

Whether you're a lifelong fan of Leonard Cohen or new to his work, this episode offers insightful interpretations and personal reflections on the ways love can shape and transform us. Words That Burn invites you to ponder the depths of Cohen's poetry and its reflection on our own experiences with love, loss, and the quest for meaning.

The Music In This Week's Episode:

'Within Our Nature' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

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Nothing More To Lose By Najwan Darwish

Words That Burn

01/25/24 • 26 min

Donation Link:

Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign: http://www.ipsc.ie/support/donate

On this episode of Words That Burn, I take a look at the poignant work of Palestinian poet Najwan Darwish and his devastating poem "Nothing More to Lose." This poem was written over ten years ago, but its message seems more important and contemporary today than ever before. His words explore the heart-wrenching realities of Palestinian life under occupation. The poem, expertly translated by Kareem James Abu-Zeid, serves as a testament to the physical, spiritual, and cultural losses endured by the Palestinian people.

Recorded against the backdrop of ongoing turmoil in Palestine, this episode sheds light on the relentless attempts by the Israeli government to erase Palestinian identity, culture, and existence. The poem delves into the history and significance of key locations of Palestine, such as the madrasah of Saladin, the village of Lifte, and the Sea of Galilee, bringing to life the sounds, sights, and emotions tied to these places.

Learn more about Najwan Darwish's unique poetic style, his refusal to adhere to a consistent poetic voice, and his critical examination of not only the Israeli occupation but also the wider political and cultural issues within Palestine.

Discover how poetry by Darwish, acts as a historical witness to the struggles and resilience of the Palestinian people.

The Music In This Week's Episode:

'Cicadas' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

Listen to the Episode on Fadwa Tuqan

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Siege by Edna St. Vincent Millay

Words That Burn

02/09/24 • 17 min

On this episode, I explore the world of Edna St. Vincent Millay, one of America's first celebrity poets. I unravel the layers of "Siege," a poem that showcases Millay's brilliant manipulation of traditional forms to express themes of desire, and the inexorable presence of death.

Discover how Millay, a luminary of the 1920s, defied societal norms with her bold exploration of sexuality, politics, and the human condition, earning her a place as a pivotal figure in literary history.

I take a closer look at Millay's life, from her stratospheric rise to fame to her untimely decline, shadowed by addiction and loss. Then I focus her groundbreaking work, including the Pulitzer Prize-winning "The Ballad of the Harp Weaver," and how her legacy has been unfairly obscured by her scandalous reputation.

"Siege" serves as a testament to Millay's mastery of poetic form and her profound insight into the human psyche.

Edna St. Vincent Millay was a poet who lived fearlessly, wrote passionately, and left an indelible mark on the world of literature. Whether you're a long-time admirer of Millay or new to her work, this episode offers a compelling glimpse into the mind of a poet who dared to challenge the conventions of her time.

Key Highlights:

Insightful analysis of "Siege," Millay's poignant reflection on mortality and the futility of material possessions.
Exploration of Millay's role as a "new woman" of the 1920s, challenging traditional gender roles and societal expectations.
Discussion of Millay's impact on poetry and her controversial personal life, including her affairs and outspoken political views.
Examination of Millay's legacy and the modern resurgence of interest in her work.

If you're captivated by the blend of beauty and rebellion in Millay's poetry or intrigued by her extraordinary life, don't forget to leave us a review and share this episode with fellow poetry enthusiasts. Your support helps us bring the transformative power of poetry to more listeners.

The Music In This Week's Episode:

'Reawakening' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

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There Are Mornings by Lisel Mueller

Words That Burn

07/25/24 • 19 min

In this week's episode, we take a closer look at "There Are Mornings" by Liesl Mueller. A poem filled with undertones of threatened endings, but one that holds a burning ember of hope at its core that resonates deeply with readers

Liesl Mueller, an American-German poet born in 1924, brings a rich mythological context to her work. "There Are Mornings" intertwines mythological and biblical imagery with the ordinary, creating a compelling narrative that balances inner turmoil with quiet resilience. The poem's structure reflects a journey from a state of dire strife to an affirmation of enduring through the mundane.

Learn more about he poet herself: Forced to flee Nazi Germany in 1939 due to her father’s anti-fascist views, Mueller's early experiences undoubtedly influenced her poetic voice, which emerged in her thirties after the death of her mother.

Join me as we explore the layers of metaphor and myth within this poem, discuss Mueller's masterful use of language, and consider the dual interpretations of its powerful imagery. Is the poem a testament to human resilience or a portrayal of silent suffering?

If you've been enjoying Words That Burn, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform. Your feedback helps the show reach more poetry enthusiasts

The Music In This Week's Episode:

'Echoes' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

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