
John Updike, who died at the age of 76 on Tuesday, January 27th, 2009, talks about his inelegant beginnings that inspired him to become one of the most elegant writers of the 20th century.

The current U.S. Poet Laureate Kay Ryan talks about what led her to become a poet at 19, how she justifies and legitimizes being a poet to herself and the world, and how her life influences her work. She reads from THE NIAGARA RIVER and SAY UNCLE, and reveals some exclusive news about the poet laureateship.

The current U.S. Poet Laureate Kay Ryan talks about what led her to become a poet at 19, how she justifies and legitimizes being a poet to herself and the world, and how her life influences her work. She reads from THE NIAGARA RIVER and SAY UNCLE, and reveals some exclusive news about the poet laureateship.

Former United States Poet Laureate Charles Simic talks about humor in his poetry, growing up in wartime Belgrade, Yugoslavia, and his love for jazz. He reads from THE VOICE AT 3 A.M. and talks about THE MONSTER LOVES HIS LABRYINTH.

Former United States Poet Laureate Charles Simic talks about humor in his poetry, growing up in wartime Belgrade, Yugoslavia, and his love for jazz. He reads from THE VOICE AT 3 A.M. and talks about THE MONSTER LOVES HIS LABRYINTH.