The Poetic Turn

John Keats, a name that resonates through the corridors of poetry, is the focal point of this episode of The Poetic Turn. Co-hosts Darren Stephens and Evan Carlson welcome Keats scholars, Brian Rejack and Mike Theune, to explore the life and work of this remarkable poet. Brian Repack at Illinois State University: https://romantic-circles.org/person/brian-rejack Mike Theune at Illinois Wesleyan University: https://www.iwu.edu/english/faculty/theune.html The website on which they collaborate, T

Virginia Bell, poet, teacher, and editor of Rhino Poetry, shares insights into poetry, its forms, and her creative process. Rhino, which celebrated its 50th anniversary this year, has evolved from grassroots workshops into a nationally recognized publication. https://rhinopoetry.org A link to Virginia Bell’s poem “Pop Song:” https://exterminatingangel.com/pop-song/ A link to Virginia Bell’s poem “Oh, Mother:” https://www.swwim.org/swwimeveryday/2024/5/24/oh-mother Virginia Bell’s website: ht

In this episode, Daniel Smith shares his poetic journey rooted in farming life, his influences like poet Gary Snyder, and the importance of capturing fleeting moments through poetry. We explore how his work preserves rural heritage and inspires future generations. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Daniel Smith and his poetic roots 02:17 Why Daniel started writing poetry: influence of family and land 06:52 First poem: Gary Snyder's influence and farm life 15:05 Story behind 'Texas Nineteen Seven

In this episode of the Poetic Turn, Darren and Evan dive into one of the most famous poems in the English language: The Raven by Edgar Allan Poe. Along with a reading of the poem and a discussion of it, there is a musical version of the poem performed aaaaall the way back in the 80s, performed by The Four Guys Standing Around Singing, an acappella group in which Darren performed. Love it or hate it, if you listen to this podcast, you'll escape the poem... Nevermore! The Raven, by Edgar Allan Po

Wallace Stevens' "Thirteen Ways of Looking at a Blackbird" is a profound exploration of perception, reality, and the interplay between the observer and the observed. Through its innovative structure and rich imagery, the poem invites readers to engage with the complexities of existence in a meaningful way. As we reflect on Stevens' work, we are reminded of the importance of embracing multiple perspectives and the beauty that lies within the act of observation. Read the poem: Thirteen Ways of L

Wallace Stevens' "Thirteen Ways of Looking at a Blackbird" is a profound exploration of perception, reality, and the interplay between the observer and the observed. Through its innovative structure and rich imagery, the poem invites readers to engage with the complexities of existence in a meaningful way. As we reflect on Stevens' work, we are reminded of the importance of embracing multiple perspectives and the beauty that lies within the act of observation. Read the poem: Thirteen Ways of L