The Poetic Turn

The Poetic Turn is a podcast hosted by Darren Stephens and Evan Carlson that explores poems and poetry through conversation—thoughtful, curious, and welcoming. Each episode invites listeners into close encounters with poems: how they work, why they matter, and what they can offer us. The show is for anyone who wants more poetry in their world. Whether you’re brand new to poetry, returning after a long absence, or already comfortable reading and discussing poems, The Poetic Turn meets you where you are—without gatekeeping, jargon for its own sake, or academic posturing. The goal is simple: to make poetry more approachable, more meaningful, and more present in everyday life.

The Poetic Turn is a arts podcast hosted by Darren Stephens and Evan Carlson, with 24 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

Darren Stephens and Evan Carlson hosts The Poetic Turn, a arts show with 24 episodes published.

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  The Poetic Turn

  Daniel Smith: Land and Language

  Jul 26, 202638 min

  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 Seventy Four' 27:13 Austin Smith's poetry and their father-son connection 33:47 Daniel's current writing and recent publications The poems on today's podcast can be found in Daniel Smith's book Ancestral . "Instructions on How to Put an Old Horse Down" can be found in Austin Smiths book Almanac . Poems from the Winter House by Daniel Smith Ancestral by Daniel Smith Gary Snyder - Official Website - https://www.garysnyder.org/ Daniel's son Austin Smith's website: https://austinsmithpoetry.com/ The episode on The Poetic Turn featuring Austin Smith: https://www.thepoeticturn.com/austin-smith-the-poetry-of-place/ Evan's website: www.evancarlsonactor.com Darren's website: www.darrensvoice.com Our cover art is by Lara Johnson: @lara_johnson_art

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  The Poetic Turn

  The Raven, by Edgar Allan Poe

  Jul 2, 202642 min

  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 Poe . Evan's website: www.evancarlsonactor.com Darren's website: www.darrensvoice.com Our cover art is by Lara Johnson: @lara_johnson_art

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  The Poetic Turn

  Thirteen Ways of Looking at a Blackbird, by Wallace Stevens

  Jun 18, 202634 min

  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 Looking at a Blackbird A link to Dan Smart's blog Rhythm is the Instrument: https://www.rhythmistheinstrument.com Dan's book The Flowers of Nonchalance can be found here . Evan's website: www.evancarlsonactor.com Darren's website: www.darrensvoice.com Our cover art is by Lara Johnson: @lara_johnson_art

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  The Poetic Turn

  Walt Whitman - Three Poems

  Jun 3, 202626 minS0

  <p>Walt Whitman, an iconic figure in American poetry, invites us to explore the essence of humanity through his works. In today’s post, we’ll delve into some of his most resonant poems, reflecting on themes of connection, love, and the joy found in companionship. Whitman’s ability to capture the beauty of everyday moments makes his poetry timeless, and understanding it can enrich our appreciation of literature and life itself.</p><p></p><p>Walt Whitman (1819-1892) was a groundbreaking American poet known for his innovative style and themes of democracy, nature, and human connection. His seminal work, <b>Leav...

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  The Poetic Turn

  Robert Burns, with Thomas Keith

  May 26, 202643 minS0

  <p>The conversation delves into the life and work of Robert Burns, exploring his poetry, the tradition of Burns suppers, the challenge of understanding Scots language in his poetry, and the significance of Scotland's bawdy song tradition. The use of music in Burns' poetry and the reading and interpretation of his work are also highlighted. </p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p>Robert Burns' poetry is often set to music, with half of his poems being lyrics to existing melodies.Burns suppers are a worldwide tradition, celebrated on his birthday with readings, songs, and haggis.Burns' use of Scots language in...

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