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Piece Description
Since 1967 the International Writing Program (IWP) at the University of Iowa has been attracting literary talent from around the world. During the last 39 years the program has hosted more than 1000 writers, poets, dramatists and novelists representing more than 115 countries. The writers spend 10 weeks in residence, intermingling with other established or newly emerging talent. In 2005, poet Mani Rao was one of 36 writers that came to Iowa's IWP program. Rao, originally from India, comes to Iowa from Hong Kong, her home for the past 10 years. Author Allen Sealy says of Rao's work, "Here is a poet who works by daring - daring herself and the reader - to let go . . . Let her in: you'll live to regret it, but at least you'll live." Rao also explores combining cutting-edge original music with her poetry and has had her work displayed as art in several of Hong Kong's art galleries and public spaces.
Broadcast History
Poetry Unbound originally aired locally on WSUI's Weekend America: Iowa Edition in November of 2005.
Timing and Cues
The interview opens with intrumental music, and an introduction by the host leads the interview. This introduction can be edited out and a lead-in crafted at the station's discretion.
Rao is pronounce like the ow in owl.
Musical Works
Opeing music is performed by Imani Winds. Original music was composed espressly for Mani Rao's poetry by Spiro.
Related Website
Chris Chambers
Posted on August 10, 2006 at 12:20 PM | Permalink
Review of Poetry Unbound
Near the beginning of this interview the interviewer says that there are those who believe that poetry doesn't translate very well on radio. I'm one of those who agree with Rao's answer that poetry is, on the contrary, very effective on radio using the power and force of sound to best advantage. Her poetry, mixed with music is very absorbing and intriguing. Her use of music actually makes you listen even more to the potency of the words. Unfortunately, I feel that there are not enough examples of her work in this piece and the interview itself is a bit turgid. A series of questions that never really get beyond a superficial response. I'm sure that Rao's an interesting woman with an interesting slant on life and her surroundings but her power in this interview comes from listening to her work and not to the conversation.