Poetry

Poet Patricia Lockwood wrote “Rape Joke,” perhaps the first poem in history to go viral. She’s also popular on Twitter for her “sexts,” inspired by the Anthony Weiner scandal, which are surreal and impossible come-ons that mock the over-sexualization of modern life.

Simin Behbahani was a beloved Iranian poet who earned the nickname “Lioness” for her powerful verse. US President Barack Obama recited one of her poems in his 2011 message to the Iranian people.

You would think an esoteric radio item about sea storms, air pressure and precipitation would not be the most popular thing on radio. But don’t tell that to fans of the BBC’s “Shipping Forecast.”You would think an esoteric radio item about sea storms, air pressure and precipitation would not be the most popular thing on radio. But don’t tell that to fans of the BBC’s “Shipping Forecast.”

Jess Walter, author of ‘The Financial Lives of the Poets,’ tells us about the economy, poetry, and whether there’s anything that’s too awful to smile about or turn into a haiku.

Poet and author Marjorie Agosin says the people in her “idyllic” hometown of Valparaiso often turn to poetry for solace when disaster strikes. A massive fire three weeks ago left the city in ashes.