How can I beautify what I do not possess / and call it anything but graffiti?

Poet Gregory Pardlo kicks off the PEN Poetry Relay.

Matthew Zapruder: Poem for a Persian Singer and Aubergine

June 22, 2012 | Danniel Schoonebeek

With PEN’s Poetry Relay, a series of readings and conversations, we hope to trace the topography of influence that connects contemporary poets to their peers and predecessors. The relay features a reading by each poet and a conversation that covers the poet’s inspiration and influences, followed by a hand-off to a peer.

In this week’s relay, Brett Fletcher Lauer passes the baton to Matthew Zapruder, author of American Linden, The Pajamaist, and Come on All You Ghosts. Listen to Zapruder read his poems “Aubergine” and “Poem for a Persian Singer” below.

Poet Dante Micheaux

With PEN’s Poetry Relay, a series of readings and conversations, we hope to trace the topography of influence that connects contemporary poets to their peers and predecessors. The relay features a reading by each poet and a conversation that covers the poet’s inspiration and influences, followed by a hand-off to a peer.

In this week’s relay, Ishion Hutchinson passes the baton to Dante Micheaux, author of Amorous Shepherd. Listen to Micheaux read his poem “Good Kisser”.