Spoiler: it's not another memory palace.

In this episode of The Poetry Vessel Podcast, Malibu Poet Laureate '23-'25 sits down with Matthew Stillman of StillmanSays to discuss the art of memorization and how poetry can become apart of our everyday lives. Stillman has worked one-on-one with thousands of people, using deep listening and creative techniques to uncover unseen connections.

Through his one-of-a-kind workshop, Committed to Heart, Committed to Memory, Stillman guides students through the art of memorizing poetry.

Committed to Heart, Committed to Memory is a four-week, small-group poetry workshop focused on memorization as a living, embodied practice. Participants will learn how to carry poems within them—so beauty, language, and meaning are readily available in speech, thought, and daily life.

👉 SPACES ARE LIMITED TO SIGN UP NOW:https://thepoetryvessel.com/friendsofthepoetryvessel/

MATTHEW STILLMAN'S SUBSTACK: https://stillmansays.com/

🙏 SUPPORT US ON PATREON:https://www.patreon.com/cw/ThePoetryVessel

📜 SUBMIT YOUR POETRY:https://www.thepoetryvessel.com/submit

🧠 HOW POETRY CHANGES YOUR BRAIN COURSE (LIMITED TIME DISCOUNT):https://www.nathanhassall.com/changeyourbrain

EVERYTHING ELSE:

📚 Recommended Reading: https://shorturl.at/SOYRP

👉 Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nathanhassall

📸 Nathan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathanhassallpoetry/

🌀 The Poetry Vessel Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepoetryvessel

📧 Business inquiries: [email protected]

🎥Our Film Gear: https://shorturl.at/j9MTW

🙏 How to Support TPV: https://thepoetryvessel.com/donate/🕰️ TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 – How Memorizing Poetry Rewires Your Mind

00:51 – Who Is Matthew Stillman?

03:45 – A Cassette Tape That Changed Everything: “Your Favorite Poems”

07:12 – Improv Comedy Powered by Poetry: Using Poems as Script11:58 – Poetic “Shards”: Why Lines of Poetry Haunt Our Everyday Speech

13:40 – Poetry as Ancient Technology & Ritual Maintenance

16:06 – Memory Palaces vs. Learning by Heart: Two Ways of Knowing

19:15 – Recitation as Live Theater: Bringing Poems Back to the Body

23:51 – Courting the Muses: Treating Memory Like a Living Being

27:32 – Usable Speech: Poems for Graveyards, Lagoons & Liminal Spaces

32:23 – How Metaphors Shape, Expand & Narrow What We Can Perceive

37:32 – Sex, Spirit & the King James Bible: An Initiation Through Language

40:35 – Poetry in Motion: What a Truly Poetic Response Looks Like

45:00 – Beyond Funerals: Bringing Poetry Back into Ordinary Life

58:20 – A 20‑Word Benediction: The Radical Hospitality of Language

PODCAST DISCLAIMER:

The views, opinions, discussions, and statements expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and are intended to represent their personal opinions and perspectives. Listener discretion is advised. The Poetry Vessel is not responsible for the accuracy or reliability of any information presented and disclaims any liability arising from the use of or reliance on any information presented in this podcast

FTC DISCLAIMER:

Some of the links above may be affiliate links, which means that if you click on them we may receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. The commission is paid by the retailers, at no cost to you, and this helps to support our channel and keep our videos free. Thank you!

In this special Valentine's Day episode of The Poetry Vessel Podcast, Malibu Poet Laureate Nathan Hassall and his wife, Rachael, dive into the world of love poetry. Out of 400 love poem submissions, we selected one featured poet, Michael T. Young, along with 4 Mystery Box Poets whose romantic poems moved us in unexpected ways.👉 JOIN OUR FREE POETRY COMMUNITY: https://www.thepoetryvessel.com/signup🙏 SUPPORT US ON PATREON:https://www.patreon.com/cw/ThePoetryVessel📜 SUBMIT YOUR POETRY:https://www.thepoetryvessel.com/submit🧠 HOW POETRY CHANGES YOUR BRAIN COURSE:https://www.nathanhassall.com/changeyourbrain👉 Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nathanhassallFEATURED POET, MICHAEL T. YOUNG:Michael T. Young’s fourth collection, Mountain Climbing a River, will be published by Broadstone Media in late 2025. He received a Fellowship from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts and the Jean Pedrick Chapbook Award. He also received honorable mention for the 2022 New Jersey Poets Prize. - Mountain Climbing a River - https://www.broadstonebooks.com/shop/p/mountain-climbing-a-river-poetry-by-michael-t-young MYSTERY BOX POETS (IN ORDER OF APPEARANCE):JON PETRUSCHKE:Jon Petruschke is a writer and psychotherapist. He resides in Portland, Maine with his wife and two sister cats. He has two books of poetry available:- Dream Haiku: Poems from Nights and Naps - https://amzn.to/3Mu6UySCYNTHIA GOOD:Cynthia Good is an award-winning poet, journalist and former TV news anchor, and the author of eight books including two poetry collections. - In The Thaw of Day - https://amzn.to/4kzgXiw TAYLOR HAMANN LOS:Taylor Hamann Los holds an MFA from Lindenwood University. Her debut chapbook, Between My Spine & the River, was published by Ridge Books in 2025. She lives in the Midwest with her family and two cats.- Between My Spine & The River: Poems - https://amzn.to/4apgJHH KATE REIM:Kate Reim is an elementary teacher and poet living in Southern California. Originally from New Jersey, she enjoys listening to Bruce Springsteen and connecting with other writers. You can find her poetry on Instagram @kate_reim_writer.🕰️ TIMESTAMPS:00:00 – Why We Still Need Love Poems01:01 – Valentine’s Day Banter & Modern Love Poetry Vibes01:57 – Introducing Our Featured Love Poet & Their Story04:42 – Reading the Featured Love Poem - "Nest Builders" by Michael T. Young06:12 – Romantic Poetry: How Love Poems Find Their Poetic Image12:44 – Valentine’s Day Origins, Birds & Love Symbolism in Poetry14:59 –Jungian psychology and regrounding the self17:49 – From History to Cliché: Valentine’s Day & Love Poems Today19:29 – Unconventional Love Imagery: Making Fresh Romantic Love Poems22:55 – Different Types of Love in Poetry: Eros, Storge & More24:45 – Mystery Box: Our First Haiku! 26:25 – Erotic Love Poems & Haiku Poems: Short, Intense Love Poetry32:51 – Introducing the Next Mystery Box Poet: "Insomnia in Rome" by Cynthia Good42:48 – Mystery Box Poem Reveal: "If I Die" by Taylor Hamann Los54:12 – Closing and Final Mystery Box Poem "The Gift" by Kate ReimPODCAST DISCLAIMER:The views, opinions, discussions, and statements expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and are intended to represent their personal opinions and perspectives. Listener discretion is advised. The Poetry Vessel is not responsible for the accuracy or reliability of any information presented and disclaims any liability arising from the use of or reliance on any information presented in this podcast.FTC DISCLAIMER:Some of the links above may be affiliate links, which means that if you click on them we may receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. The commission is paid by the retailers, at no cost to you, and this helps to support our channel and keep our videos free. Thank you!

Writing a love poem that actually feels honest—and not cheesy—is harder than it looks. In this episode of The Poetry Vessel's Master Your Craft series, Malibu Poet Laureate, Nathan Hassall and his wife, Rachael, dive deep into how to write a love poem that avoids clichés, speaks from your real emotional core, and genuinely reaches the person you’re writing for. Whether you’re writing a love poem for a partner, a crush, a wedding, or even your own marriage vows, we’ll explore how to move beyond generic “roses are red” lines and into something vulnerable, specific, and alive. Drawing on the history of love poetry (from ancient lyric to Sappho) and on real emotional psychology, we’ll break down concrete techniques you can use today.You’ll learn how to say “I love you” without actually saying it, how to use imagery and subtext, how to embrace imperfection, and how to share your poem in a way that doesn’t feel cringe. If you’ve ever stared at a blank page thinking, “I want to write them something meaningful, but everything sounds corny,” this is for you.👉 JOIN OUR FREE POETRY COMMUNITY: https://www.thepoetryvessel.com/signup🙏 SUPPORT US ON PATREON:https://www.patreon.com/cw/ThePoetryVessel📜 SUBMIT YOUR POETRY:https://www.thepoetryvessel.com/submit🧠 HOW POETRY CHANGES YOUR BRAIN COURSE (LIMITED TIME DISCOUNT):https://www.nathanhassall.com/changeyourbrainEVERYTHING ELSE: 📚 Recommended Reading: https://shorturl.at/SOYRP👉 Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nathanhassall📸 Nathan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathanhassallpoetry/🌀 The Poetry Vessel Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepoetryvessel📧 Business inquiries: [email protected]🎥Our Film Gear: https://shorturl.at/j9MTW🙏 How to Support TPV: https://thepoetryvessel.com/donate/🕰️ TIMESTAMPS:0:00 – How to Write a Love Poem That Isn’t Cheesy or Cliché0:28 – History of Love Poetry: From Ancient Lyric Love Poems to Sappho's Eros1:26 – Why Writing Love Poems Is So Hard2:03 – Emotional Sources of Love Poetry (Desire, Fear, Longing, Joy)3:07 – Authentic Love Poetry Writing Tips (Avoiding Cringe & Clichés)3:40 – How to Say “I Love You” Without Saying It (Poetic Techniques)4:05 – Stream of Consciousness Writing for Love Poems4:42 – How to Avoid Clichés in Love Poetry5:45 – Writing Love Poems That Embrace Imperfection7:30 – How to Write Love Poems for Weddings & Marriage Vows10:26 – What Makes a Love Poem Meaningful to the Receiver13:21 – How to End a Love Poem With Impact18:12 – How to Share a Love Poem With Someone Else (Timing, Context & Delivery)20:21 – The Secret to Writing Love Poems That Truly ConnectPODCAST DISCLAIMER:The views, opinions, discussions, and statements expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and are intended to represent their personal opinions and perspectives. Listener discretion is advised. The Poetry Vessel is not responsible for the accuracy or reliability of any information presented and disclaims any liability arising from the use of or reliance on any information presented in this podcast.FTC DISCLAIMER:Some of the links above may be affiliate links, which means that if you click on them we may receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. The commission is paid by the retailers, at no cost to you, and this helps to support our channel and keep our videos free. Thank you!

Thinking of reading poetry to your partner for Valentine's Day? Watch this before you make it awkward.In this video, we dive into the best love poems and romantic poetry to read when you're in love. Malibu Poet Laureate Nathan Hassall (of The Poetry Vessel) explores whether spoken word poetry can bridge the gap between high art and absolute cringe by reading famous works directly to his wife, Rachael.We analyze Lord Byron's "She Walks in Beauty," Walt Whitman’s "I Sing the Body Electric," as well as poems by W.B. Yeats, and Emily Dickinson to break down exactly why these masterpieces work—giving you the perfect inspiration for how to write love poetry for Valentine's Day that actually lands.We discuss the raw honesty required to pull off a poetry reading, why traditional romantic poems for her often feel "gross" in real life, and how you can identify poetry that lands without the cheese factor.👉 JOIN OUR FREE POETRY COMMUNITY: https://www.thepoetryvessel.com/signup🙏 SUPPORT US ON PATREON:https://www.patreon.com/cw/ThePoetryVessel📜 SUBMIT YOUR POETRY:https://www.thepoetryvessel.com/submit🧠 HOW POETRY CHANGES YOUR BRAIN COURSE (LIMITED TIME DISCOUNT):https://www.nathanhassall.com/changeyourbrain❤️ LOVE POETRY BOOKS WE LOVE:https://amzn.to/4blrfAu EVERYTHING ELSE: 📚 Recommended Reading: https://shorturl.at/SOYRP👉 Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nathanhassall📸 Nathan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathanhassallpoetry/🌀 The Poetry Vessel Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepoetryvessel📧 Business inquiries: [email protected]🎥Our Film Gear: https://shorturl.at/j9MTW🙏 How to Support TPV: https://thepoetryvessel.com/donate/🕰️ TIMESTAMPS:0:00 – Why reading love poems is terrifying (even for a pro)0:30 – Meet Nathan Hassall: Malibu Poet Laureate 0:50 – The Alchemy of Poetry: Mastering Your Craft 2:15 – Reading Lord Byron to my wife ("She Walks in Beauty")3:51 – How Tone and Accent Change the Meaning of a Poem 5:15 – Trying a different tone (Is this better or worse?) 7:07 – Using nature to describe beauty without being cheesy9:07 – Walt Whitman: "I Sing the Body Electric" (The Female Form) 11:43 – The Power and Empowerment of Whitman’s Verse 14:15 – W.B. Yeats: "A Man Young and Old: First Love" 16:06 – The "Murderous Brood": Handling unrequited love19:03 – How to write about love without using clichés20:20 – Emily Dickinson: "The Moon is Distant from the Sea" 22:35 – The neuroscience of reading poetry aloud24:24 – Challenge: Can you define love without being awkward?26:00 – How to Join The Poetry Vessel CommunityPODCAST DISCLAIMER:The views, opinions, discussions, and statements expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and are intended to represent their personal opinions and perspectives. Listener discretion is advised. The Poetry Vessel is not responsible for the accuracy or reliability of any information presented and disclaims any liability arising from the use of or reliance on any information presented in this podcast.FTC DISCLAIMER:Some of the links above may be affiliate links, which means that if you click on them we may receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. The commission is paid by the retailers, at no cost to you, and this helps to support our channel and keep our videos free. Thank you!

Is the Digital Dark Age finally ending? We are living through a profound meaning crisis defined by the paradox of hyper-connectivity and fragmentation.

As we witness the rise of the Art vs AI debate and the widespread defunding of the humanities, we must ask if we are losing the vocabulary required to perceive objective meaning. This episode of Master Your Craft explores the potential for a new cultural renaissance emerging from our spiritual exhaustion. We dive into the Ad Fontes movement and why poetry matters as the ultimate act of resistance in an algorithmic world. Whether you are a writer or someone feeling the creative burnout of modern society, this discussion is an invitation to reclaim your human spirit.

👉 JOIN OUR FREE POETRY COMMUNITY: https://www.thepoetryvessel.com/signup🙏 SUPPORT US ON PATREON:https://www.patreon.com/cw/ThePoetryVessel📜 SUBMIT YOUR POETRY:https://www.thepoetryvessel.com/submit🧠 HOW POETRY CHANGES YOUR BRAIN COURSE (LIMITED TIME DISCOUNT):https://www.nathanhassall.com/changeyourbrainEVERYTHING ELSE: 📚 Recommended Reading: https://shorturl.at/SOYRP👉 Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nathanhassall📸 Nathan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathanhassallpoetry/🌀 The Poetry Vessel Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepoetryvessel📧 Business inquiries: [email protected]🎥Our Film Gear: https://shorturl.at/j9MTW🙏 How to Support TPV: https://thepoetryvessel.com/donate/🕰️ TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Is a New Renaissance Coming?

00:42 - The Historical Blueprint for Cultural Rebirth

01:26 - Ad Fontes: Returning to the Human Sources

02:10 - AI Slop and Art vs. AI: Is Technology Our Modern Plague?03:12 - Defining Humanism in the Digital Age

04:14 - Why Poetry Matters: Human Cadence vs AI

05:58 - Is AI the New Printing Press?

07:14 - New Romanticism: Reclaiming the Human Spirit

09:08 - The Craving for Authentic Art

10:27 - William Blake on the Ethics of Technology

13:02 - Instagram Poetry vs Deep Reading

15:52 - Can Great Art Come from Suffering?

17:45 - Poetry as Resistance: Writing Through Despair

20:41 - The Revolt Against Corporate Speak

22:02 - How to Build Community in a Fragmented WorldPODCAST DISCLAIMER:The views, opinions, discussions, and statements expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and are intended to represent their personal opinions and perspectives. Listener discretion is advised. The Poetry Vessel is not responsible for the accuracy or reliability of any information presented and disclaims any liability arising from the use of or reliance on any information presented in this podcast.FTC DISCLAIMER:Some of the links above may be affiliate links, which means that if you click on them we may receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. The commission is paid by the retailers, at no cost to you, and this helps to support our channel and keep our videos free. Thank you!

Filmed in the Malibu mountains, this episode of Master Your Craft explores how poetry restores wonder in a world shaped by endless scrolling and distraction. Nathan Hassall and Rachael unpack disenchantment (from Max Weber to Keats), discuss poetry in the digital age, and show how attention, slow reading, and memorization can reawaken meaning. Featuring a memorized reading of W.B. Yeats’ “The Lake Isle of Innisfree” and a look at Atmosphere Infinite Malibu, this episode invites you to experience poetry as a living, transformative force.

👉 JOIN OUR FREE POETRY COMMUNITY: https://www.thepoetryvessel.com/signup🙏 SUPPORT US ON PATREON:https://www.patreon.com/cw/ThePoetryVessel📜 SUBMIT YOUR POETRY:https://www.thepoetryvessel.com/submit🧠 HOW POETRY CHANGES YOUR BRAIN COURSE (LIMITED TIME DISCOUNT):https://www.nathanhassall.com/changeyourbrain❤️ COMMITTED TO HEART, COMMITTED TO MEMORY ONLINE WORKSHOP:https://www.thepoetryvessel.com/friendsofthepoetryvessel📖 BOOKS REFERENCED:- Poetry As Enchantment by Dana Gioia - https://amzn.to/4qC95yO - Atmosphere: Infinite Malibu, Poetry by Charlotte Ward, Photography by Chris Ward - https://amzn.to/456guy6EVERYTHING ELSE: 📚 Recommended Reading: https://shorturl.at/SOYRP👉 Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nathanhassall📸 Nathan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathanhassallpoetry/🌀 The Poetry Vessel Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepoetryvessel📧 Business inquiries: [email protected]🎥Our Film Gear: https://shorturl.at/j9MTW🙏 How to Support TPV: https://thepoetryvessel.com/donate/🕰️ TIMESTAMPS:0:00 Poetry as Enchantment: Escaping Endless Scrolling0:45 Master Your Craft: Turning Poetry From Lead to Gold (Malibu Episode)1:23 How to Re-Enchant Your Life: The Poet’s Practice of Attention2:56 Disenchantment Explained: Max Weber, Keats & “Unweaving the Rainbow”4:10 The Hidden Essence of a Poem: Attention, Mystery & Meaning5:29 Dana Gioia on Poetry as Enchantment: Poetry as Healing & Community7:21 Poetry in the Digital Age: TikTok vs Savoring Poems (Slow Reading)10:54 Memorizing Poetry for Magic: Performance, Slam Poetry & Embodiment13:23 W.B. Yeats “The Lake Isle of Innisfree”: Poetry as Incantation18:39 Atmosphere Infinite Malibu: Poetry + Photography, Place & Closing ReflectionsPODCAST DISCLAIMER:The views, opinions, discussions, and statements expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and are intended to represent their personal opinions and perspectives. Listener discretion is advised. The Poetry Vessel is not responsible for the accuracy or reliability of any information presented and disclaims any liability arising from the use of or reliance on any information presented in this podcast.FTC DISCLAIMER:Some of the links above may be affiliate links, which means that if you click on them we may receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. The commission is paid by the retailers, at no cost to you, and this helps to support our channel and keep our videos free. Thank you!

Well, this was awkward.In this episode of The Poetry Vessel – Master Your Craft, we react to the viral alleged RFK Jr. erotic poem and use it as a teaching moment. We discuss what makes erotic poetry effective, why some poems miss the mark, and how writers can balance sensuality, subtlety, and craft. We also read an excerpt from Pablo Neruda to compare strong erotic imagery with weaker examples.What we cover:- what makes erotic poetry work- common mistakes in erotic poems- explicit vs erotic writing- examples of powerful sensual imagery- how to write erotic poems with nuance and depth👉 JOIN OUR POETRY COMMUNITY: https://www.thepoetryvessel.com/signupSUBMIT YOUR POETRY:https://www.thepoetryvessel.com/submit🎓 BUY OUR POETRY COURSE (LIMITED TIME DISCOUNT):https://www.nathanhassall.com/changeyourbrainEVERYTHING ELSE: 📚 Recommended Reading: https://shorturl.at/SOYRP👉 Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nathanhassall📸 Nathan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathanhassallpoetry/🌀 The Poetry Vessel Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepoetryvessel📧 Business inquiries: [email protected]🎥Our Film Gear: https://shorturl.at/j9MTW🙏 How to Support TPV: https://thepoetryvessel.com/donate/🕰️ TIMESTAMPS:0:00 – Poetry in the news: the viral RFK Jr. erotic poem0:24 – Welcome to The Poetry Vessel – Master Your Craft0:30 – What makes erotic poetry work (and why it often fails)0:46 – Background on the alleged RFK Jr. poem1:32 – Why we’re focusing on the poem, not the politics2:05 – Full reading of the alleged RFK Jr. erotic poem3:39 – First reaction: why this poem feels uncomfortable4:25 – Erotic poetry from a woman’s perspective5:30 – Explicit vs erotic: important differences6:06 – Shock value vs genuine sensuality in poetry7:02 – Common mistakes in erotic poetry9:43 – Why some erotic poems make audiences cringe10:10 – Pablo Neruda example: what good erotic poetry sounds like11:18 – Why Neruda’s imagery succeeds where others fail13:05 – Objectification vs seeing the whole person15:04 – Playfulness, subtlety, and suggestion in erotic poems17:02 – The art of teasing: how to imply without overexplaining19:20 – Desire, fantasy, and imagination in erotic writing21:09 – Taste, tone, and avoiding desperation in erotic poems23:40 – Poets who write powerful erotic or romantic poetry25:00 – Writing erotic poetry from real emotional experience27:30 – Do you need personal experience to write erotic poetry?30:19 – When language fails and feeling takes over32:27 – One key tip for writing better erotic poems33:14 – Outro: Subscribe, comment, and join our mailing list—FTC DISCLAIMER:Some of the links above may be affiliate links, which means that if you click on them I may receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. The commission is paid by the retailers, at no cost to you, and this helps to support our channel and keep our videos free. Thank you!PODCAST DISCLAIMER:The views, opinions, discussions, and statements expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and are intended to represent their personal opinions and perspectives. All photos and images have been included with the permission of the guest and anonymous clients. This podcast is an opinion-driven program, and all statements and discussions are made with the understanding that they are subjective and may not reflect objective facts or truths. Listener discretion is advised. The Poetry Vessel is not responsible for the accuracy or reliability of any information presented and disclaims any liability arising from the use of or reliance on any information presented in this podcast.#poetlaureate #howtowritepoetry #whatpoetryis #poetrywriting #poetsofyoutube

Learn how to improve your poetry performances with proven techniques for spoken word poetry, slam poetry, and performance poetry. Whether you're preparing for your first poetry slam or refining your stage presence, this guide covers essential poetry performance tips to captivate any audience.In this video, you'll discover:- Voice control and projection techniques for powerful delivery- Body language and stage presence strategies- How to connect emotionally with your audience through performance poetry- Timing and pacing methods used by professional slam poets- Common performance mistakes and how to avoid them- Perfect for beginners and experienced poets looking to elevate their spoken word poetry skills.👉 Join our FREE poetry community: https://www.thepoetryvessel.com/signupOTHER MENTIONS:How Words Change Your Brain by Mark Waldman - https://amzn.to/3XMXG2U California Poet Laureate, Dana Gioia -  @DanaGioiaPoet  Birmingham Poet Laureate, Jasmine Gardosi -  @jasminegardosi5190  Footage of Dana Gioia originally published on David Perrel's channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XvfLmbHkBV4 FOLLOW FOR MORE:👉 Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nathanhassall📸 Nathan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathanhassallpoetry/🌀 The Poetry Vessel Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepoetryvessel📧 Business inquiries: [email protected]🎥 THE FILM GEAR WE USE: https://shorturl.at/j9MTW📚 RECOMMENDED READING: https://shorturl.at/SOYRP🙏 ONLINE TIP JAR: https://www.nathanhassall.com/support-our-journey 0:00 – Why Most Poetry Readings Feel Boring0:18 – Bad Poetry vs Bad Singing (Dana Gioia’s Insight)0:40 – Stage Nerves, Confidence & Cringe0:53 – Welcome to Master Your Craft: Performance Edition1:25 – What Matters More: The Words or the Delivery?1:49 – How Melodic Delivery Can “Save” a Poem2:42 – Neuroscience & Poetic Speaking (Course Connection)3:00 – Make Your Voice Feel Alive, Not Like a Textbook3:41 – Reading vs Reciting: Stop Flattening Your Poems4:34 – When You Want Confidence but Only Feel Nerves5:06 – How to Perform Your Poem5:40 – Don’t Just Read in Your Head: Practice Out Loud6:27 – Acting Tricks: Move, Sing, Walk Your Poem7:01 – Memorization, “Off by Heart,” and Avoiding Melodrama8:09 – The Golden Rule of Performance: Slow, Loud, Clear8:44 – Silence, Pauses & Letting Images Land9:22 – Why Nervous Poets Rush (And How to Slow Down)10:17 – Stop Apologizing Before You Read11:12 – Nathan’s Journey From Shy Poet to Confident Performer13:00 – How to Support Nervous Poets as an Audience14:21 – Handling Mistakes on Stage Without Melting Down15:15 – Learning From the Best Slam Poets17:12 – Teaser: How Poetry Changes Your Brain18:01 – Your Brain Is Hardwired for Poetry & Rhythm19:15 – Course Invite: Become a Better Poetic Speaker & Listener19:36 – Outro & Next Steps in the Master Your Craft Series—FTC DISCLAIMER:Some of the links above may be affiliate links, which means that if you click on them I may receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. The commission is paid by the retailers, at no cost to you, and this helps to support our channel and keep our videos free. Thank you!PODCAST DISCLAIMER:The views, opinions, discussions, and statements expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and are intended to represent their personal opinions and perspectives. All photos and images have been included with the permission of the guest and anonymous clients. This podcast is an opinion-driven program, and all statements and discussions are made with the understanding that they are subjective and may not reflect objective facts or truths. Listener discretion is advised. The Poetry Vessel is not responsible for the accuracy or reliability of any information presented and disclaims any liability arising from the use of or reliance on any information presented in this podcast.

Discover why your poems are suffering without the right feedback in this poetry review, poem analysis, and poem critique episode of The Poetry Vessel Podcast. Learn how to handle negative comments on your poems, turn harsh criticism into constructive criticism, and use good feedback to improve your poetry and creative writing. We analyze two powerful contemporary poems—exploring faith, doubt, agnosticism, dream imagery, and how poetry transforms uncertainty into meaning—so you can write braver, more honest work and grow as a poet.This episode is for poets who are learning how to write poetry and who want honest poem critique, thoughtful poetry criticism, and practical advice on how to deal with feedback without losing their voice.

👉 JOIN OUR FREE POETRY COMMUNITY: https://www.thepoetryvessel.com/signup

🙏 SUPPORT US ON PATREON:

https://www.patreon.com/cw/ThePoetryVessel

📜 SUBMIT YOUR POETRY:

https://www.thepoetryvessel.com/submit

🧠 HOW POETRY CHANGES YOUR BRAIN COURSE (LIMITED TIME DISCOUNT):

https://www.nathanhassall.com/changeyourbrain

FEATURED POET:

Frank Paino earned an MFA from Vermont College of Fine Arts. His fourth book, Dark Octaves, won the Longleaf Press Book Prize and was published in April 2025. In 2023, his chapbook, Pietà, won the Jacar Press Chapbook Prize and was published later that year. Frank has received a Pushcart Prize, The Cleveland Arts Prize in Literature, and an Individual Excellence Award from the Ohio Arts Council. His poems have appeared in a variety of literary publications, including: Crab Orchard Review, Catamaran, and North American Review.

SUPPORT FRANK'S WORK HERE:- https://www.frankpaino.net/books.html

- "Dark Octaves" by Frank Paino

- https://amzn.to/4sb7bXD

- "Obscura" by Frank Paino - https://amzn.to/4sb7bXD

MYSTERY BOX POET:

Martina Reisz Newberry is the author of 8 books of poetry. Her most recent book is Sadie: Queen of the Swollen Nose Saloon (Alien Buddha Press). Newberry has been included in The Cenacle, Cog, Blue Nib, Roanoak Review, and many other literary magazines. Her work has also been included in many anthologies. She has been awarded residencies at Yaddo Colony for the Arts, Djerassi Colony for the Arts, and Anderson Center for Disciplinary Arts. Passionate in her love for Los Angeles, Martina currently lives there with her husband, Brian, a Media Creative.

SUPPORT MARTINA'S WORK HERE:

- https://martinanewberry.wordpress.com/

- "Sadie, Queen of The Swollen Nose Saloon" by Martina Reisz Newberry - https://amzn.to/4p95I13

EVERYTHING ELSE: 

📚 Recommended Reading: https://shorturl.at/SOYRP

👉 Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nathanhassall

📸 Nathan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathanhassallpoetry/

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📧 Business inquiries: [email protected]

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The views, opinions, discussions, and statements expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and are intended to represent their personal opinions and perspectives. Listener discretion is advised. The Poetry Vessel is not responsible for the accuracy or reliability of any information presented and disclaims any liability arising from the use of or reliance on any information presented in this podcast.

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Stuck with lack of poetry writing inspiration or writer's block this winter?Winter has long been a season poets return to—not just for its beauty, but for its darkness, stillness, and psychological depth. In this episode of The Poetry Vessel’s Master Your Craft series, we explore how winter can become a powerful source of creative inspiration rather than a creative block, with poetry analysis, creative writing tips, and reflective conversation.Rachael and Malibu Poet Laureate Nathan Hassall share practical creative writing tips and poetry techniques to help writers work with winter’s inward energy—using observation, daily practice, and intentional awe to awaken creativity from hibernation. You’ll hear simple creative writing exercises and winter writing prompts you can try today, plus ideas for building a sustainable creative writing routine that actually fits your life.From reflections on English winters and landscape to the role of nature poetry and winter nature poetry in your work, this episode offers writing inspiration, poetry for beginners, and deeper tools for more experienced poets alike.We also read and analyze Robert Frost’s “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening,” offering step‑by‑step poetry analysis and a full Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening analysis. Together we unpack how repetition, atmosphere, sound, and the winter solstice shape the poem’s deeper meaning—and what you can steal for your own poetry writing and winter poems.Along the way, we talk honestly about creative avoidance, writer’s block and writing block solutions, writing routines, vulnerability on the page, and how to set realistic writing intentions and poetry resolutions for the year ahead.If you’ve been feeling creatively dormant—or unsure how to write during winter or how to write winter poems that actually feel alive—this conversation is a gentle invitation back to the page, with concrete poetry writing exercises, winter writing prompts, and mindset shifts to help you keep writing all winter long. 🎥 Watch next: Explore the full Master Your Craft playlist for more poetry craft videos:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLefotLJfrm6vVO77Owhtl-WMUxKTAVolX 📖 New to The Poetry Vessel?This channel is all about helping you learn poetry, creative writing, and the philosophy behind great literature. We go beyond surface-level tips into the primal forces that drive powerful writing: awe, suffering, beauty, and the strange mystery of being alive.✍️ If you’re a poet, writer, or just someone who feels called to language, consider joining our FREE newsletter: https://www.thepoetryvessel.com/signup📚 RECOMMENDED READING:Our Most Recommended Reads — https://shorturl.at/SOYRPFOLLOW FOR MORE:👉 Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nathanhassall📸 Nathan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathanhassallpoetry/🌀 The Poetry Vessel Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepoetryvessel📧 Business inquiries: [email protected]🎥 THE FILM GEAR WE USE: https://shorturl.at/j9MTW🙏 ONLINE TIP JAR: https://www.nathanhassall.com/support-our-journey
FTC DISCLAIMER:

Some of the links above may be affiliate links, which means that if you click on them we may receive a small commission.  As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. The commission is paid by the retailers, at no cost to you, and this helps to support our channel and keep our videos free. Thank you!

PODCAST DISCLAIMER:

The views, opinions, discussions, and statements expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and are intended to represent their personal opinions and perspectives. Listener discretion is advised. The Poetry Vessel is not responsible for the accuracy or reliability of any information presented and disclaims any liability arising from the use of or reliance on any information presented in this podcast.