Advertise on podcast: Words That Burn

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 Follow the Podcast: Read the Script on Substack Follow the Podcast On Instagram Follow the Podcast on X/Twitter Follow the Podcast on Tiktok Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 The New Yorker Article Follow the Podcast: Read the Script on Substack Follow the Podcast On Instagram Follow the Podcast on X/Twitter Follow the Podcast on Tiktok Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 Mahmoud Darwish Listen to the Episode on Fadwa Tuqan Follow the Podcast: Read the Script on Substack Follow the Podcast On Instagram Follow the Podcast on X/Twitter Follow the Podcast on Tiktok Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we explore Susannah Dickey’s Outtake #3, a thought-provoking piece from her debut collection, Isdal. This poem critically examines the true crime genre, questioning the ethics of deriving entertainment from real-life tragedies. Dickey’s work is inspired by the mysterious case of the Isdal Woman, weaving a narrative that challenges our fascination with true crime. Through a fictional podcast setting, the poet addresses the problematic nature of exploiting such stories for entertainment. The poem critiques the voyeuristic tendencies in true crime consumption and the moral dilemmas faced by creators and audiences alike. In Outtake #3, Dickey confronts the normalisation of violence against women in media. The poem begins by dismissing the notion that consuming stories of femicide is subversive, drawing parallels with other acts of accepted cruelty. It then moves into a reflective phase, examining the thin line between observing, studying, and committing acts of violence. The poem concludes with a sharp turn, highlighting the commercial aspects of podcast production. This ending serves as a stark reminder of the industry's prioritisation of profit over ethical storytelling. All of this serves to show how Susannah Dickey is a poet specialising in building intricate verse that makes her readers think about and examine the established in whole new ways. Susannah Dickey grew up in Derry and now lives in London. She is the author of four poetry pamphlets, I had some very slight concerns (2017), genuine human values (2018), bloodthirsty for marriage (2020), and Oh! (2022). Her poetry has been published in The TLS, Poetry London, and Poetry Ireland Review. Her short fiction has been published in The Dublin Review and The White Review. The Music In This Week's Episode: 'Effervescence' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au Follow Susannah Dickey: Instagram X Follow the Podcast: Read the Script on Substack Follow the Podcast On Instagram Follow the Podcast on X/Twitter Follow the Podcast on Tiktok Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of "Words That Burn," I delve into the enthralling microcosm of James Tate's poem "Dear Reader." Our journey through "Dear Reader's" 13 lines reveals the intricate layers and emotional depth that Tate, a beloved poet of the surreal, weaves into his direct dialogue with the reader. His poem is sometimes playful in tone, other times pure tongue in cheek, but always draws the reader deeper and deeper into the lines. I will look at Tate's distinct blend of suspenseful and macabre imagery. His ability to juxtapose the difficulties and joys of the everyday is a highlight of this episode, demonstrating why Tate's work is so popular among poets and poetry enthusiasts alike. I dissect each segment of "Dear Reader" in this insightful episode, beginning with its enigmatic opening lines. We delve into Tate's poem's symbolism and thematic content, discussing its implications for the nature of poetry and its impact on both readers and writers. Which can be devastating and illuminating in equal measure Learn more about James Tate's distinct style and his impact on the poetry community. Tate's experimental approach and distinct way of avoiding confessional poetry have established him as a significant figure in modern literary studies. and explain why he's considered the godfather of American surrealist poetry. The Eileen Myles Episode The Charles Simic Episode The Frank O' Hara Episode The Music In This Week's Episode: 'Phase Shift' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au Follow the Podcast: Read the Script on Substack Follow the Podcast On Instagram Follow the Podcast on X/Twitter Follow the Podcast on Tiktok Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donation Link:  Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign: http://www.ipsc.ie/support/donate *correction: In the episode I mistakenly say the Ireland Solidary Palestine Campaign or ISPC, it is in fact the Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign or IPSC apologies for this. In this episode, we explore "The Deluge and the Tree" by the renowned Palestinian poet Fadwa Tuqan (1917-2003), a voice of defiance and hope amidst the struggles of the Palestinian people. As Palestine faces ongoing challenges since October 7, 2023, we turn to Tuqan's work to shed light on the enduring spirit of resistance and resilience. Fadwa Tuqan, born into a turbulent era in Nablus, Palestine, witnessed first-hand the hardships of occupation and displacement, experiences that deeply influenced her poetry. Despite facing a conservative upbringing and limited formal education, Tuqan's poetic journey, initially guided by her brother, Ibrahim Tuqan, evolved to echo the cries of her people. Her early works, published under the pseudonym Dananir, touched on themes of women's silencing and the need for Muslim feminism. The pivotal year of 1948, marked by the Nakba – the mass displacement of Palestinians – transformed Tuqan's poetic voice into a beacon of political resistance. Her words became a rallying cry against the injustices faced by her people, particularly following the second wave of displacement in 1967, known as the Naksa. "The Deluge and the Tree," a poem from her 1988 collection "Daily Nightmares," masterfully intertwines nature imagery with the Palestinian struggle. The hurricane symbolizes the invading forces, while the resilient tree represents the enduring Palestinian spirit. This metaphor extends throughout the poem, reflecting Tuqan's deep connection to her land and her people's unwavering determination to resist and reclaim their identity. As we analyse this powerful poem, we also recognize the importance of poetry in Arab culture – not as an elite art form but as a medium of mass appeal and spontaneous reaction to events. Tuqan's work, like that of her contemporaries, served as a vital tool in nurturing Palestinian nationalism and hope. Join us in this episode as we dive deep into "The Deluge and the Tree," understanding its historical context, symbolism, and the lasting impact of Fadwa Tuqan's words. Listen to the Episode on Mahmoud Darwish Follow the Podcast: Read the Script on Substack Follow the Podcast On Instagram Follow the Podcast on X/Twitter Follow the Podcast on Tiktok Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us in this riveting episode of Words That Burn, where we delve into the poetic and mental health journey of Daragh Fleming, an acclaimed poet and mental health advocate from Cork, Ireland. Daragh, the voice behind the award-winning Thoughts Too Big blog and author of the poignant collection "Lonely Boy," shares his insights into how poetry serves as a bridge to mental wellness and personal expression. In this exclusive interview, Daragh opens up about the therapeutic role of poetry in his life, especially during his early twenties when he battled depression. He discusses his latest works, including the highly commended pamphlet "The Hole," and his upcoming collection "Enigmatic," revealing the intricate process of creating art that resonates with themes of masculinity, loneliness, and mental health. Discover how Daragh leverages social media platforms like TikTok to bring his conversational poetry style to a broader audience, breaking down barriers and challenging the traditional notions of masculinity in Irish culture. His candid reflections on performing poetry, the impact of language, and the importance of authenticity will inspire both poetry enthusiasts and mental health advocates alike. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to Daragh's work, this episode promises a deep dive into the intersection of mental health and poetry, offering a fresh perspective on how words can heal, connect, and transform us. Daragh's Social Media Follow the Podcast: Read the Script on Substack Follow the Podcast On Instagram Follow the Podcast on X/Twitter Follow the Podcast on Tiktok Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Words That Burn Halloween Special 2023 Step into the shadowy world of poetry with the Words That Burn Halloween Special. This episode meticulously unravels the spine-tingling works of three legendary poets: Emily Dickinson, Linda Pastan, and Lord Alfred Tennyson. Emily Dickinson's "One Need Not Be a Chamber": Venture into the eerie corridors of the human mind, where Dickinson masterfully illustrates that the most profound hauntings come not from external specters but from our innermost fears and memories.Linda Pastan's "The Deathwatch Beetle": Experience a haunting narrative that echoes the style of Edgar Allan Poe, delving deep into the psyche's unraveling amidst the omnipresent ticking of the deathwatch beetle—a symbol of impending doom.Lord Alfred Tennyson's "The Kraken": Plunge into the abyssal depths of the ocean, where Tennyson paints a vivid picture of a monstrous creature, stirring theories that it might have inspired the infamous Cthulhu mythos.This episode promises not just a poetic journey but an immersive experience that intertwines literature, history, and the supernatura If this episode sends shivers down your spine, don't forget to leave a review and share the chilling experience with your friends. Light a candle, dim the lights, and prepare for a poetic journey that promises to haunt long after the episode ends. Wishing you a truly terrifying Halloween! Get In Touch: Read the Script on Substack Follow the Podcast On Instagram Follow the Podcast on X/Twitter Follow the Podcast on Tiktok The music in this episode is I Did It by Alon Peretz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode, I got a chance to chat with Irish Poet Jessica Traynor about her sequence of witch poems from her 2018 collection The Quick. Jessica Traynor is an accomplished Dublin-based poet whose work reflects her deep roots in Irish history, culture, and contemporary society. Her poetry is known for its intricate layering of personal and collective narratives, often delving into topics such as heritage, identity, the human experience, and the intersections of past and present. All this and more exist in her Witch Poems. They delve deep into the world patriarchy, and societal dynamics. Jessica shares her evocative poems that paint a vivid picture of the struggles and triumphs of women navigating a society stacked against them. From the cunning strategies of witches demonstrating how to catch a rabbit to the raw emotions of curses born out of suppressed anger, these poems offer a unique lens into the transformative power of words. We also discuss the juxtaposition of humour and darkness, the significance of societal subterfuge, and the lasting impact of intergenerational dynamics. Join us for a journey through poetic landscapes that challenge, inspire, and resonate with listeners. The portrait in the thumbnail was taken by Bríd O’Donovan. Follow Jessica Traynor: Instagram Twitter/ X Website Follow the podcast: Instagram Twitter/ X Website The Transcript for the Interview Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we reflect upon the profound impact of Seamus Heaney, celebrating the tenth anniversary of the poet’s passing by examining his poignant piece, "The Haw Lantern." We explore: The rich, multifaceted landscapes in Heaney's poetry, capturing the essence of Ireland with raw, genuine portrayals.Heaney’s unique ability to intertwine dense, academic poetic language with relatable narratives, allowing readers to experience and inhabit the worlds he depicts.Heaney’s intertwining of classical references and Irish folklore, from Diogenes's lantern to the symbolic Hawthorn Tree, weaving a tapestry of interconnected myths and truths.Heaney’s reflections on the socio-political chaos, known as the Troubles in Northern Ireland, and his exploration of hope and self-respect amidst turmoil.The significance of "The Haw Lantern," a title piece that encapsulates Heaney’s quest for unearthing truth and illuminating the opaque aspects of human experience. Featured Poem: "The Haw Lantern" This titular poem, from his 1987 collection, serves as a beacon, revealing Heaney's introspective journey and his grappling with the transient nature of life, death, and everything in between. As we dissect the poem, the layers of meaning unfold, demonstrating Heaney's intricate intertwining of personal and universal truths. About Seamus Heaney: Awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1995, Heaney’s legacy as a poetic titan remains evergreen, providing solace and insight to both avid poetry enthusiasts and casual readers. His melding of mythology and reality offers a fresh perspective on contemporary issues while retaining the essence of timeless wisdom. The Poem Get In Touch: Read the Script on Substack Follow the Podcast On Instagram Follow the Podcast on X/Twitter Follow the Podcast on Tiktok The music in this episode is Textures by Okaya Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it mean to truly grieve and can we ever move on from it?. In this episode, I explore OBIT [Ambition] by Victoria Chang, a poignant reflection on how we grieve not just physical deaths but abstract losses as well. Delve deep into the background of Chang’s 2020 collection, "OBITS", and understand the inspiration and intention behind her poetic obituaries. Join me in decoding this evocative poem that intertwines grief, ambition, memory, and more. Whether you're a poetry enthusiast or someone navigating the maze of grief, Chang's words will resonate deeply. The Poem T.S. Eliot's Rhapsody on a Windy Night Get In Touch Read the Script on Substack Follow the Podcast On Instagram Follow the Podcast on X/Twitter Follow the Podcast on Tiktok The Music in this week's episode is Mindfulness by Aija Alsina Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Delve into the poetic world of Mahmoud Darwish on this week's episode of Words That Burn. Uncover the heart-wrenching narrative of "Earth Presses Against Us" from his 1986 anthology, "Fewer Roses." . Often considered to be Palestine's most important poet, Darwish's poetic expanse narrates the profound pain and oppression of immigrants, particularly from the Palestinian perspective. Born in the Palestinian village of Birweh, Darwish became an emblem of resistance and a voice of lamentation after witnessing the demolition of his home by Israeli forces. Through poetic analysis, we trace the suffocating journey of a fleeing group of refugees, unearthing the symbolism of stones, and the essence of identity in exile, and the hope of the olive tree while we do so. All this punctuated by looking at the style and technique that made Darwish a titan of poetry. By the end, we confront the inevitability of sacrifice and the everlasting hope embedded in the iconic Palestinian olive tree. Whether you're a long-time fan of Darwish or just starting, this episode is a poignant journey into the resilience and heartache of the Palestinian spirit. Join me as we uncover the layers of one of Palestine's most compelling poets. Substack Script Instagram Twitter Tik Tok Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.