Live Wire with Luke Burbank: Poetry Month Special
Release Date: April 11, 2025
Introduction
In celebration of National Poetry Month, Live Wire with Luke Burbank delivers a special episode that immerses listeners in the vibrant world of contemporary poetry. Hosted by Luke Burbank of PRX, the episode features an impressive lineup of poets—Hanif Abdurraqib, Anees Mojgani, Kaveh Akbar, Paisley Rechdal—and the soulful sounds of singer-songwriter Casey Anderson. This episode not only showcases poetic performances but also delves into insightful discussions about the art of poetry, its accessibility, and its profound impact on both creators and audiences.
Opening Remarks
00:02 - 02:34
Luke Burbank sets the stage by introducing the special lineup of poets selected to honor Poetry Month. He humorously notes his own limited poetry skills, promising to let the professionals take the spotlight. After a brief promotional segment, Elena Passarello emphasizes the diverse talents featured in the episode, including Hanif Abdurraqib, Anees Mojgani, Kaveh Akbar, Paisley Rechdal, and musical interludes by Casey Anderson.
Hanif Abdurraqib: "A Ghost in My House"
05:46 - 12:11
Hanif Abdurraqib, a nationally acclaimed cultural critic and poet, shares a poignant poem titled "A Ghost in My House." Before performing, Hanif reflects on personal grief, discussing the loss of a friend and the contemplation of mortality:
"I have to make the most of that stolen time. Right? But that also means that every bit of time I steal puts me at odds with the reality that there is someone I love who will not outlive me."
(11:00)
His poem intertwines themes of love, loss, and coexistence with a spectral presence in his home. Through vivid imagery and emotional depth, Hanif explores the concept of living alongside remnants of the past, both literal and metaphorical.
Key Insights:
- Poetry as a medium for processing grief and loss.
- The interplay between past and present in personal narratives.
- The role of community and relationships in sustaining one through difficult times.
Anees Mojgani: "Things I Love"
14:13 - 18:56
Anees Mojgani, the 10th Poet Laureate of Oregon and an International World Cup Poetry Slam champion, performs his evocative poem "Things I Love." Mojgani's work is celebrated for its lyrical beauty and profound observations on everyday life. His poem encapsulates an appreciation for simple joys and the interconnectedness of human experiences:
"I love the piano. I love when someone plays the piano when you didn't know they could play the piano when they don't feel they know how to play the piano."
(17:30)
Key Insights:
- The beauty in mundane moments and everyday objects.
- The significance of human connections and shared experiences.
- Poetry's ability to elevate the ordinary to the extraordinary.
Audience Haiku Submissions
20:22 - 23:07
In a playful segment, Luke Burbank and Elena Passarello invite listeners to share their own haikus about April, aligning with Poetry Month. Several submissions are read, showcasing the community's creativity and engagement with the theme.
Notable Haikus:
-
Carla's "Owed to taxes"
Owed to taxes is the title of this haiku. I guess a number that the feds already know. Go to jail if Wrong question mark.
(21:06) -
Lynn Lin's Haiku
Halfway to summer, sun, rain, green, moist, petrichor, studded tires gone.
(21:39) -
Martha's Birthday Haiku
Birthday month brings more eye bags. Chin up, vodka down.
(21:39)
Key Insights:
- Poetry as an accessible and engaging form of personal expression.
- The versatility of haiku in capturing diverse themes, from humor to nature to personal milestones.
Paisley Rechdal: Demystifying Poetry
23:54 - 39:46
Paisley Rechdal, the one-time Poet Laureate of Utah and author of Real Imaginary Gardens on Reading and Writing Poetry Forensically, engages in an in-depth conversation about understanding and appreciating poetry. Recorded live at the Patricia Research Center for the Arts in Beaverton, Paisley shares her motivations for writing the book and offers practical strategies for readers to engage with poetry more effectively.
Key Discussions:
-
Accessibility of Poetry:
Paisley emphasizes the importance of making poetry approachable, especially for those who feel intimidated by its perceived complexity."Poetry... should be considered a pleasure."
(38:45) -
Forensic Reading Approach:
Introducing her method of "forensic reading," Paisley compares analyzing a poem to examining a crime scene—focusing on evidence without preconceived narratives."Treating poems a bit like crime scenes... you have to look... spend some time looking at the evidence."
(28:45) -
Deixis in Poetry:
Paisley explains the concept of deixis—how language in poems establishes context by identifying who is speaking, to whom, and under what circumstances. She illustrates this with Langston Hughes' poem "Letter.""A poem is basically a piece of writing that tells two or more stories at the exact same time, using the exact same language."
(27:14) -
Cultural and Emotional Impact:
Discussing poetry's unique ability to crystallize time and evoke bodily responses through rhythm and rhyme, Paisley highlights what sets poetry apart from other literary forms."A poem stops time because... you can be in the present moment, but also in the past and in the future."
(36:33)
Notable Quotes:
-
"If you don't get it in five minutes, then you're stupid."
(25:26) — Reflecting on the frustration of not initially understanding poetry. -
"Poem stops time because... you can be in the present moment, but also in the past and in the future."
(36:33) — Highlighting poetry's temporal fluidity.
Key Insights:
- Poetry's multifaceted nature allows for deep emotional and intellectual engagement.
- Structured approaches can demystify poetry and make it more accessible.
- Understanding technical aspects like deixis enhances the appreciation of poetic works.
Station Location Identification Examination
40:27 - 41:50
In a fun and interactive segment, Luke quizzes Elena Passarello on identifying poetry-themed radio stations across the United States. The segment includes historical references and notable events in the poetry community.
Highlights:
- New York City, New York:
Acknowledged as a significant hub for poetry, home to the Nuyorican Poets Cafe, founded in 1973, which has hosted legends like William S. Burroughs and Patti Smith."It's New York City, New York."
(41:25)
Key Insights:
- The geographical diversity of poetry platforms reflects its widespread cultural impact.
- Literary landmarks like the Nuyorican Poets Cafe play a crucial role in nurturing poetic talent and community.
Kavi Akbar: Intimate Love Poems
43:01 - 46:29
Best-selling author Kavi Akbar shares original love poems from his collection "Martyr." Recorded live at the Tomorrow Theater in Portland, Akbar's poems are a blend of personal intimacy and broader existential themes. His work often marries traditional poetic structures with contemporary sensibilities, creating a unique and resonant voice.
Notable Poems:
-
"Love Poem, with lines from Jesus and Muhammad"
Explores themes of faith, love, and existential contemplation."After I go soft inside you, obliterate me into that forever."
(45:30) -
"Love Poem with Euclid in mind"
Combines mathematical concepts with emotional depth, questioning the nature of perception and connection."It is hard to look at someone and really see them."
(46:05)
Key Insights:
- The intersection of personal relationships and broader philosophical questions enhances the depth of poetic expression.
- Akbar's work exemplifies the power of poetry to convey complex emotions and ideas succinctly.
Casey Anderson: Musical Interlude - "Leave an Echo"
47:23 - 51:00
Singer-songwriter Casey Anderson closes the episode with his heartfelt song "Leave an Echo," which incorporates lines from Hanif Abdurraqib's poetry. The collaboration underscores the symbiotic relationship between poetry and music, illustrating how poetic expressions can be transformed into melodic narratives.
Notable Lyrics:
"I'm scared to touch anything that might stay long enough to leave an echo behind."
(49:05)
Key Insights:
- Music as a medium for extending the reach and emotional impact of poetry.
- Collaborative creativity enriches both artistic forms, fostering a deeper connection with the audience.
Conclusion
Live Wire with Luke Burbank’s Poetry Month Special masterfully balances poetic performances with insightful discussions, making poetry accessible and engaging for a broad audience. Through the contributions of esteemed poets and a talented musician, the episode celebrates the enduring power of poetry to reflect, challenge, and inspire. Whether you're a seasoned poetry enthusiast or new to the form, this episode offers a rich tapestry of voices and perspectives that underscore the relevance and vitality of poetry in contemporary culture.
Special Acknowledgments:
- Guests: Hanif Abdurraqib, Anees Mojgani, Kavi Akbar, Paisley Rechdal, Casey Anderson
- Collaborators: The Alano Club of Portland, Tomorrow Theater
- Supporters: Livewire community members Ann E. Mulia and Lindsey Mazer
Listen More:
To explore more episodes and engage with the vibrant Live Wire community, visit livewireradio.org.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps:
-
Hanif Abdurraqib on grief and stolen time:
"I have to make the most of that stolen time."
(11:00) -
Anees Mojgani on the beauty of simple moments:
"I love the piano... playing it feels like being held in this way by a lover from a world that has already ended."
(17:30) -
Paisley Rechdal on treating poems like crime scenes:
"Rather than try to force the thing to be the story you want it to be, you have to look... spend some time looking at the evidence."
(28:45) -
Discussion on poetry's ability to stop time:
"A poem stops time because... you can be in the present moment, but also in the past and in the future."
(36:33)
This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the "Poetry Month Special" episode of Live Wire, highlighting key performances, discussions, and insights that make the episode a must-listen for poetry enthusiasts and newcomers alike.