An Interview with Jamie McKendrick

Exploring Poetry with Jamie McKendrick: Memory, Mortality, and Art

In this episode of 'Words That Burn', host Ben interviews Jamie McKendrick, one of Britain's leading poets and a foremost translator of Italian poetry. They walk through McKendrick's newest collection, 'Drypoint,' discussing themes of memory, mortality, art, and the intricate processes behind poetry writing. McKendrick shares insights into his fascination with etching, his (sometimes) laborious poetry process, and the interplay of ancient mythology with modern life. The episode also touches on broader themes like the nature of borders, the role of poetry in contemporary times, and the ecological concerns reflected in his work.

• [00:00] Introduction to the Interview
• [00:47] The Art of Etching and Poetry
• [03:52] Themes of Memory and Mortality
• [05:37] Crafting Poetry: Process and Criticism
• [12:08] Intertextuality and Influences
• [27:04] Liverpool's Influence and Historical Context
• [30:17] Exploring Borders and Ownership
• [34:44] Nature and Mythology in Poetry
• [38:15] Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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