Apparently, we had more to say about having something to say! Matthew Buckley Smith returns for part two of our conversation about poetry, meaning, and his talk “The Teacup Stirs.” The 2025 Rattle Chapbook Prize winner reads from The Soft Black Stars, the conversation takes a few unexpected turns, and Katie somehow manages to sneak in a little Billy Collins.

At the table: Katie Dozier, Timothy Green, and Matthew Buckley Smith.

What does it really mean for a poem to have “something to say”? Poet and Sleerickets host Matthew Buckley Smith joins Katie Dozier and Timothy Green to unpack his provocative talk, “The Teacup Stirs,” from Think journal’s recent symposium. Along the way, they discuss poetic meaning, craft, and why having something to say isn't always what it seems.

At the table: Katie Dozier, Timothy Green, & Matthew Buckley Smith

Poetry Anthologies have more than a nodding acquaintanceship with Dickens—anthologies seem to be the best of poetry and, at times, the worst of poetry.

In this episode, we look at the history of Best American Poetry, which was retired last year, and touch on the Pushcart Prize. We also bring up ethical considerations and look at Billy Collins' Poetry 180. Lastly, we make an announcement: the Firelit Poetry Prize!

At the Table: Katie Dozier & Timothy Green.