David Biespiel is an American poet, novelist, and essayist.

Born in Texas, his work spans poetry and memoirs. He has established a notable presence in the literary world with his unique blend of poetry and prose. Biespiel's literary journey is marked by his deep exploration of personal and collective experiences, captured through his compelling works. His accolades include several prestigious awards and fellowships, highlighting his significant impact on contemporary literature.

As the founder of the Attic Institute of Arts and Letters and serving as Poet-in-Residence at Oregon State University, he has played a pivotal role in nurturing literary talent. His dedication to the craft is evident in his extensive body of work, which has not only earned critical acclaim but also resonated with a wide audience.

In this episode, we explore his transition from poetry to prose, the influence of his early life on his writing, and the creation and impact of his poet’s workshop.

This is David Biespiel Unbound.

We delve into the world of David Roderick, an esteemed American poet whose journey from Plymouth, Massachusetts, to the forefront of contemporary poetry is as compelling as his verses.

A Colby College alumnus with an MFA from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst and a Wallace Stegner Fellowship at Stanford University under his belt, David's literary prowess is evident in his acclaimed collections: "Blue Colonial" and "The Americans."

Our conversation with David offers an intimate glimpse into his life and work. He shares insights into his newest poems from "Darkness for Beginners," reflecting on themes like middle life and fatherhood, and the emotional landscape that shapes his poetry. His personal connection to the late journalist James Foley, a friend from graduate school, brings a poignant touch to his latest work.

David's role as a literary citizen comes to the fore as we discuss his co-founding of Left Margin LIT, a creative writing center in Berkeley. This venture, born out of his desire to connect more deeply with the community outside academia, is a testament to his dedication to nurturing literary talent and fostering a shared writing space.

Listeners will find David's reflections on balancing the various facets of his life – from teaching, directing content for Adroit Journal, to running Left Margin LIT – both fascinating and inspiring. His thoughtful approach to poetry, particularly his emphasis on the power of verbs as "energy centers" in his work, offers valuable insights for aspiring poets.

Join us in this episode as we explore David Roderick's literary world, where the suburban landscapes, personal histories, and the complexities of American identity converge to create poetry that resonates with readers across generations.

Randall Mann is a poet whose work eloquently explores themes of form, queer identity, and the vivid emotional landscapes of places like San Francisco. Hailing from Provo, Utah, with formative years spent in Kentucky and Florida, Mann has carved out his own place in contemporary poetry with notable works including "Complaint in the Garden" and "A Better Life."

In this episode of the Authors Unbound Podcast, we delve into a rich conversation with Randall as he discusses his latest collection, "Deal: New and Selected Poems." Discover the depth of Randall’s poetry, where structure and rhyme intricately capture the complexities of LGBTQ experiences and personal histories.

Tune in for evocative readings from his collection, featuring poems "September" and "A Walk in the Park." These readings showcase Mann’s lyrical prowess but also provide listeners with a look into his creative process and the themes that permeate his work.