Often it seems a problem to find the time and place for something peaceful and creative within the busy lives in the 21st century. In Poetry, one gets to read rhythmic language and deep thinking that provokes the common imagery of the society. Thus, joining the traditions of the spoken word art and the possibilities of the contemporary technology, poetry podcasts are used as perfect relaxes and creative stimulators. Here is the lists of 11 best poetry podcasts for poetry lovers, writers who tend to find some inspiration, or simply, for the people who need some quiet time.
Table of Contents
1. The Slowdown
The Slowdown is a daily poetry podcast presented by the former U. S. Poet Laureate Ada Limón, which is meant to slow down the audiences and make them think. Limón’s pleasant voice, plus choosing a poem for each episode followed by reading it makes for a soothing program where one can learn to value the small things in life. Still, it is a great podcast for anyone who wants to get his or her daily dose of meaning and poetic reflection.
Host: Ada Limón
Available on: This podcast is also available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts.Episode
Episode Length: 5–10 minutes
2. Poetry Unbound
Sponsored by the On Being Project and hosted by Pádraig Ó Tuama, Poetry Unbound provides an analysis of one poem at a time. Ó Tuama’s detailed examination allows the reader to think about the motifs that lie behind every poem, and therefore it is suitable for readers who want to ponder over the nuances and the value of poetry.
Host: Pádraig Ó Tuama
Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcast
Episode Length: 10–15 minutes
3. The Poetry Magazine Podcast
For Poetry lovers who wants to read the current trend, then, The Poetry Magazine Podcast is a good option of show to podcast. Presented by the editors of Poetry Magazine, each show features readings, interviews, and sometimes poets’ conversations. This diverse approach to the content provides both the relaxation from tired mind and the stimulation of the intellectual activity.
Host: Simone Beer ; Charlotte March; Nikki Bede; Shanan Turnbull; Emma Powell; Silvana Paratore
Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcast
Episode Length: 20–40 minutes
4. Versify
Versify is a storytelling podcast that infuses a poetic feel in its episodes and is perfect for those who have a taste for that kind of style. It is a program from Nashville Public Radio in which regular people are matched with poets to write poetry based on the person’s life story. The result is a qualitative mix of prose and poetry, giving a comforting and inspiring word for the individual and sensitive tale-sucking listener.
Host: Joshua Moore
Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcast
Episode Length: 20–30 minutes
5. The Writer’s Almanac
A radio program by Garrison Keillor, The Writer’s Almanac is a blend of poems followed by a look at a peculiar calendar event. There are roughly 20 episodes within the series that features Keillor’s soothing voice and gentle readings making this podcast ideal for either waking up to in the morning or winding down to in the evening.
Host: Garrison Keillor
Available on: Podcast platforms include; Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts
Episode Length: 5 minutes
6. Poem of the Day
Laying no claim on creativity or interpretation, Poem of the Day by the Poetry Foundation provides the listener with one poem every day read by poets and performers. For those who want to introduce poetry into their life and do not have time for a long reading, an ideal solution is short episodes of a few minutes.
Host: Various Poets
Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcast
Episode Length: 2–5 minutes
7. Poetry Off the Shelf
Another program from the Poetry Foundation, Poetry Off the Shelf is a preview of the more comprehensive examination of contemporary poetry. As hosted by Helena de Groot, the podcast includes interviews with some poets as well as show and tell discussions on certain trends and topics in poetry of the present moment. If you feel like listening to, or reading, something that will inspire and soothe you as well as, increase your knowledge about the craft and background of poems, then consider this podcast as your best choice.
Host: Helena de Groot
Available on: Podcast Platforms include Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasts.
Episode Length: 15–25 minutes
8. Lyric Life
Usually, Lyric Life is a podcast that releases one poem per episode and goes through all of its aspects with true fervor hosted by a poet and teacher named Mark Scarbrough. He has a fascination with poetry that can easily be felt by his audience and his commentaries are profound, which allow listeners to feel the rhythm of the poems and its message. Therefore, because of its reflective format, this podcast will be of a great interest to the audience that looks for inspiration in the traditional and modern poetry.
Host: Mark Scarbrough
Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts
Episode Length: 20–30 minutes
9. The New Yorker: Poetry
For lovers of modern and cutting-edge poetry, The New Yorker: A laugh with poetry podcast gives you a view of some of the finest modern poems that have appeared in The New Yorker. Newly moderated by poetry editor Kevin Young, each episode includes a poet reading his/her work aloud and expounding on the material during the air, thus providing its listeners with a dose of both the soothing and stimulating.
Host: Kevin Young
Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcast
Episode Length: 30–45 minutes
10. Commonplace: Conversations with Poets (and Other People)
For those who seek a more informal one-on-one and casual discussion, there are interviews with poets, writers and artists at work and about work. It is presented by poetess Rachel Zucker, and the episodes cover the aspects of the process of creating art and all the challenges that come with it The show is excellent for listeners who simply want to hear some creative people being honest about their work.
Host: Rachel Zucker
Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts
Episode Length: 60–90 minutes
11. Poetry Says
Civilian Podcast Poetry Says which is an Australian poetry pod cast hosted by Alice Allan sorts through Australian poet Alfred Jensen’s self published poetry book titled “The Striped City”. Hear Allan’s calm interview style and the contemplation of his questions giving each episode a cozy chat with another poetry fan vibe. It is without a doubt suitable for listeners who want to get both literary discovery and author’s self-analysis.
Host: Alice Allan
Available on: It’s available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts
Episode Length: 30–50 minutes
Conclusion
Through these 11 poetry podcasts, one can find the needed break after work or a search for inspiration or just a break to breathe and relax. In this context, it is possible to listen to a detailed analysis of a certain issue or tune into a simple and calming voice. So get your headphones in, take a seat and let the eloquence of poetry sink in.
