Monthly Archives: October 2023

It’s Your Limbs He Comes to Fill

By Robin Bates | Published: October 21, 2023

Mary Karr’s poem on the resurrection imagines Jesus longing for life and returning to fill us in turn.

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How Lit Inspires Courage and Love

By Robin Bates | Published: October 19, 2023

Fletcher in “Masterworks” argues that epic narrative can boost courage and lyric disclosure can do the same for love.

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Glück on the “Lethal, Unstable” Future

By Robin Bates | Published: October 18, 2023

In “Empty Glass,” Glück does a deep dive into the many ways we strive to control an uncertain future.

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GOP Intellectuals Want a “Red Caesar”

By Robin Bates | Published: October 17, 2023

Rightwing intellectuals are now advocating “Red Caesarism.” Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar” provides some insights.

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Euripides on the Loss of a Child

By Robin Bates | Published: October 16, 2023

Euripides helped philosopher Nussbaum handle the death of her daughter. This is one of literature’s great gifts.

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Glück on Teen Sex, Rape, and Persephone

By Robin Bates | Published: October 15, 2023

Louise Gluck, who died last week, has a fascinating poem about Persephone that explores difficult issues of teen sex.

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Poetry Rescues Women in Dark Places

By Robin Bates | Published: October 14, 2023

Poetry can reach women in prison and those who are homeless and suffering from addiction.

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On Friday 13 and Black Cats

By Robin Bates | Published: October 12, 2023

A post on Friday 13 and black cats, with thoughts on Poe and a Rilke cat poem.

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A House Member’s Scarlet Letter

By Robin Bates | Published: October 11, 2023

Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) recently wore a scarlet letter to work. We explore why.

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