Shows
Words That BurnThe Language Ban by Annemarie Ní ChurreáinThis week on Words That Burn, we delve into the powerful and moving poem "The Language Ban" from Annemarie Ní Churreáin's acclaimed 2021 collection, The Poison Glen. Join me as we explore the hidden history of Irish Sign Language (ISL) and the devastating impact of its suppression.Discover the story of St. Joseph's School for Deaf Boys in Cabra, Dublin, and how the controversial 1880 Milan Conference led to a policy of "Oralism," forcing a spoken language upon deaf children and branding their native sign language as shameful. I'll unpack Ní Churreáin's potent imagery, from the...2025-06-2621 min
Words That BurnDoor On The Road by Mosab Abu TohaDonation Link: Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign: http://www.ipsc.ie/support/donateIn this episode of Words That Burn, I take a closer look at "Door on the Road," by Palestinian poet Mosab Abu Toha. The poem opens with the aftermath of an explosion in a refugee camp, where a fallen door becomes a grave marker for a young man whose only remaining connection to his past is a worn key — the key to his family’s lost home in Yaffa.As I unpack the powerful imagery in Abu Toha’s work...2025-05-1928 min
Words That BurnOphelia's Head Is Finished by Olga Dermott-BondIn this episode of Words That Burn, I take a closer look at Ophelia’s Head Is Finished by the brilliant poet Olga Dermott-Bond—a haunting and layered ekphrastic response to John Everett Millais’ iconic painting Ophelia. Inspired by a chilling epigraph from one of Millais’ 1852 letters, the poem invites us to reconsider what lies beneath the surface of this romanticised artwork, and to centre the overlooked woman at its heart: Elizabeth Siddal.As I explore the poem stanza by stanza, I reflect on its gothic tone, its critique of the Pre-Raphaelite obsession with beauty, and the physical...2025-04-1030 min
Words That BurnAn Interview with Maurice RiordanIn this episode of Words That Burn, poet Maurice Riordan joins Ben to reflect on a career-spanning selection of poems curated by former student and fellow poet Jack Underwood. With the new Selected Poems from Faber and Faber arranged out of chronology, Riordan discusses how themes like rural life, modernity, nature, and time emerge more clearly—and more hauntingly—across decades of work.Together, they explore how poetry manipulates time, the influence of film and science, the uncanny weight of Irish myth, and what it means to write with one foot in the past and the other in a...2025-03-2639 min
Words That BurnSpring Song by Reg SanerSpring Song by Reg Saner: an eternal cycle we're all lucky to haveIn this episode of 'Words That Burn,' Reg Saner's poem 'Spring Song.' is the central focus With spring setting in, the episode explores the poetic beauty and profound themes in Saner's work, such as points of intersection and transition, cyclical nature, and the ineffable qualities of the natural world. It also uncovers some fascinating aspects of Saner's life, including the roots of his obsession with conservation, his varied career as a soldier, professor, conservationist, and poet, and his eventual...2025-02-0713 min
Words That BurnSnowdrops by Louise GlückExploring Louise Glück's 'Snowdrops': A Tale of Resilience and RenewalIt's a new year and with it comes the common pressure cooker that is January. You will be awash in a sea of resolutions and you might be feeling the need to ''hit the ground running'' so to speak. In short; I think it's awful. So for the start of 2025, this episode focusing Snowdrops by Louise Glück, a Nobel Prize-winning poet whose work captures the delicate balance of grief, resilience, and renewal.The snowdrop, a fragile yet tenacious bloom of winter, se...2025-01-0119 min
Words That BurnNovember by Maggie DietzAn In-Depth Analysis of 'November' by Maggie Dietz | Words That Burn PodcastJoin me, your host Ben, in this episode of 'Words That Burn' as I take a closer look at Maggie Dietz's poignant poem 'November.' Together, we'll explore the evocative imagery, the interplay of surface and underlying themes, and Dietz's ability to gild the everyday moments of a bleak month. I'll zone in on how the poem encapsulates the transition from the vibrant October to the cold, harsh November, examining Dietz's unique rhyme scheme, her descriptive prowess, and the cyclical nature of the...2024-11-1325 min
Words That BurnIf I Must Die by Refaat AlareerDonation Link: Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign: http://www.ipsc.ie/support/donateThe Symbolism and Legacy of Refaat Alareer's WorkIn this episode, we explore 'If I Must Die' by Palestinian poet Refat Al Arir, whose work powerfully voices the struggles and resilience of Palestinians. We delve into Refaat Alareer's , his tragic death in an Israeli airstrike, and the prophetic nature of his poetry. The episode also touches on the symbolic significance of kites in Gaza as emblems of hope and resistance. Alareer's commitment to amplifying Palestinian voices in English and pr...2024-10-2118 min
Words That BurnBlossom by Kathleen JamieIn this episode of Words That Burn, I look at 'Blossom' by Scottish poet Kathleen Jamie. The episode explores Jamie's profound engagement with nature and the existential themes woven throughout her poem. Known for her realistic, non-romanticised depictions of the natural world, Jamie’s work prompts reflection on humanity's place in nature. The discussion touches on her careful observation and meditation-like practices in nature. The analysis focuses on the poem's compelling opening line on mortality, its invocation of Biblical imagery, and its ultimate message urging deliberate attention to life and nature. The episode also emphasises the importance of reconnecting wi...2024-09-1217 min
Words That BurnAn Interview with Jamie McKendrickExploring Poetry with Jamie McKendrick: Memory, Mortality, and ArtIn this episode of 'Words That Burn', host Ben interviews Jamie McKendrick, one of Britain's leading poets and a foremost translator of Italian poetry. They walk through McKendrick's newest collection, 'Drypoint,' discussing themes of memory, mortality, art, and the intricate processes behind poetry writing. McKendrick shares insights into his fascination with etching, his (sometimes) laborious poetry process, and the interplay of ancient mythology with modern life. The episode also touches on broader themes like the nature of borders, the role of poetry in contemporary times, and...2024-08-2640 min
Words That BurnOh Rascal Children of Gaza by Khaled JumaDonation Link: Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign: http://www.ipsc.ie/support/donateThis episode takes a closer look at Khaled Juma's poignant poem, 'O Rascal Children of Gaza.' .Written in response to the violence during Operation Protective Edge in 2014, the poem heartbreakingly laments the loss of Gaza's children. The episode highlights the poem's structure, the use of juxtaposition between joyful past and sorrowful present, and its stark portrayal of the silence that follows tragedy. Juma's work is analysed for its simplicity and powerful emotional appeal, showcasing the resilience and grief of th...2024-08-1516 min
Words That BurnThere Are Mornings by Lisel MuellerIn this week's episode, we take a closer look at "There Are Mornings" by Liesl Mueller. A poem filled with undertones of threatened endings, but one that holds a burning ember of hope at its core that resonates deeply with readersLiesl Mueller, an American-German poet born in 1924, brings a rich mythological context to her work. "There Are Mornings" intertwines mythological and biblical imagery with the ordinary, creating a compelling narrative that balances inner turmoil with quiet resilience. The poem's structure reflects a journey from a state of dire strife to an affirmation of enduring through...2024-07-2519 min
Words That BurnAn Interview with Sam Riviere on AI In PoetryLast week I had an interview with the acclaimed poet Sam Riviere on his new collection Conflicted Copy. As AI technology continues to evolve, many artists feel apprehensive about its impact on their craft. However, Sam has chosen a different path by embracing AI as a unique writing companion, culminating in his innovative poetry collection, Conflicted Copy.Join us as Sam shares his journey of curiosity and experimentation, exploring how he navigated the creative process with an earlier, less sophisticated AI model during the second wave of COVID-19. We discuss the blurred lines between...2024-07-0346 min
Words That BurnThe God of Stories by Ricardo Rowan PhillipsIn this episode, we delve into "The God of Stories," a poignant poem by Rowan Ricardo Phillips from his latest collection, Silver (2024). This piece captures the essence of creation myths and the search for meaning, offering a fresh perspective on how we, as humans, assign significance to gods and everyday achievements alike.I take a look at the layers of Phillips' verse, exploring themes of perception, identity, and the fluidity of meaning. From the intriguing opening lines to the dense, imagery, I note how Phillips navigates between symbolism and allegory, encouraging us to embrace the transformative power...2024-06-1919 min
Words That BurnAn Interview with Milena WilliamsonOn this episode of Words That Burn, I feature the poetry of Milena Williamson, a celebrated poet and author of the haunting collection Into the Night That Flies So Fast published by Daedalus Press. In this episode, Milena shares her journey from Pennsylvania to Belfast, her academic and creative endeavours at Queen's University Belfast, and the deeply personal project that turned into her latest book.Dive deep into the tragic yet intriguing history of Bridget Cleary, a figure from l Irish history, whose story inspired Milena's collection. Bridget's life, marked by education, independence, and a tragic...2024-05-1540 min
Words That BurnFuck Your Lecture On Craft, My People Are Dying by Noor HindiDonation Link: Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign: http://www.ipsc.ie/support/donateIn this week's episode of Words That Burn, I take a look at the powerful poem 'Fuck Your Lecture On Craft, My People Are Dying' by Palestinian American poet Noor Hindi.The poem found a surge of interest during the lockdowns of 2020 and became phenomenally popular on social media, with thousands of shares and retweets. Given its unflinching disdain for injustice and searing language that refuses to allow passivity to take hold in its audience, it's not hard to see wh...2024-05-0923 min
Words That BurnAn Interview with Camille RalphsThis week on Words That Burn, I am joined by poet Camille Ralphs, whose debut collection After You Were, I Am mesmerises with its vibrant exploration of historical and mythological narratives often overlooked. In this enlightening interview, Ralphs shares the inspiration behind her compelling work, featured in esteemed publications like the New York Review of Books and the Times Literary Supplement. Discover the electrifying language and empathetic depth that animate figures from Elizabethan occultists to the Pendle Witches, offering a fresh perspective on their lives and legacies. Listen an Ralphs' recites three poems...2024-04-1129 min
Words That BurnDoineann by Caitlín Nic ÍomhairWelcome to this special Seachtain Na Gaeilge edition of Words That Burn, where we dive deep into the heart of Irish poetry.In this episode, we explore "Doineann" by Caitlín Nic Íomhair, a poignant piece that mirrors the seasonal changes with the personal and linguistic rebirths of its narrator. Translated by the celebrated Colette Bryce for the anthology Calling Cards, this poem is not just a call for the revival of the Irish language but a testament to the enduring connection between our the Irish language and identity.As we na...2024-03-1316 min
Words That BurnOwning Everything by Leonard CohenEnter the poetic world of Leonard Cohen with this special episode of Words That Burn, dedicated to the transformative power of love and mysticism in Cohen's work. In this episode, we unravel the layers of "Owning Everything," a poem that captures the essence of Cohen's early poetic ventures through its intricate blend of romantic mysticism, spirituality, and the profound connections between the divine and the mundane.This is a very special episode dedicated to my gorgeous partner, Hannah. We both have a special place in our hearts for the works of Leonard Cohen and he was...2024-02-2118 min
Words That BurnSiege by Edna St. Vincent MillayOn this episode, I explore the world of Edna St. Vincent Millay, one of America's first celebrity poets. I unravel the layers of "Siege," a poem that showcases Millay's brilliant manipulation of traditional forms to express themes of desire, and the inexorable presence of death.Discover how Millay, a luminary of the 1920s, defied societal norms with her bold exploration of sexuality, politics, and the human condition, earning her a place as a pivotal figure in literary history.I take a closer look at Millay's life, from her stratospheric rise to fame to her untimely...2024-02-0917 min
Words That BurnNothing More To Lose By Najwan DarwishDonation Link: Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign: http://www.ipsc.ie/support/donateOn this episode of Words That Burn, I take a look at the poignant work of Palestinian poet Najwan Darwish and his devastating poem "Nothing More to Lose." This poem was written over ten years ago, but its message seems more important and contemporary today than ever before. His words explore the heart-wrenching realities of Palestinian life under occupation. The poem, expertly translated by Kareem James Abu-Zeid, serves as a testament to the physical, spiritual, and cultural losses endured by...2024-01-2526 min
Words That BurnOuttake #3 by Susannah DickeyIn this episode, we explore Susannah Dickey’s Outtake #3, a thought-provoking piece from her debut collection, Isdal. This poem critically examines the true crime genre, questioning the ethics of deriving entertainment from real-life tragedies.Dickey’s work is inspired by the mysterious case of the Isdal Woman, weaving a narrative that challenges our fascination with true crime. Through a fictional podcast setting, the poet addresses the problematic nature of exploiting such stories for entertainment. The poem critiques the voyeuristic tendencies in true crime consumption and the moral dilemmas faced by creators and audiences alike.In O...2024-01-1721 min
Words That BurnDear Reader by James TateIn this episode of "Words That Burn," I delve into the enthralling microcosm of James Tate's poem "Dear Reader."Our journey through "Dear Reader's" 13 lines reveals the intricate layers and emotional depth that Tate, a beloved poet of the surreal, weaves into his direct dialogue with the reader. His poem is sometimes playful in tone, other times pure tongue in cheek, but always draws the reader deeper and deeper into the lines.I will look at Tate's distinct blend of suspenseful and macabre imagery. His ability to juxtapose the difficulties and joys of the everyday...2024-01-1018 min
Words That BurnThe Deluge and The Tree by Fadwa TuqanDonation Link: Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign: http://www.ipsc.ie/support/donate*correction: In the episode I mistakenly say the Ireland Solidary Palestine Campaign or ISPC, it is in fact the Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign or IPSC apologies for this. In this episode, we explore "The Deluge and the Tree" by the renowned Palestinian poet Fadwa Tuqan (1917-2003), a voice of defiance and hope amidst the struggles of the Palestinian people. As Palestine faces ongoing challenges since October 7, 2023, we turn to Tuqan's work to shed light on the en...2023-11-2917 min
Words That BurnAn Interview with Irish Poet Daragh FlemingJoin us in this riveting episode of Words That Burn, where we delve into the poetic and mental health journey of Daragh Fleming, an acclaimed poet and mental health advocate from Cork, Ireland. Daragh, the voice behind the award-winning Thoughts Too Big blog and author of the poignant collection "Lonely Boy," shares his insights into how poetry serves as a bridge to mental wellness and personal expression.In this exclusive interview, Daragh opens up about the therapeutic role of poetry in his life, especially during his early twenties when he battled depression. He discusses his latest works...2023-11-0828 min
Words That BurnHalloween Special 2023Words That Burn Halloween Special 2023Step into the shadowy world of poetry with the Words That Burn Halloween Special. This episode meticulously unravels the spine-tingling works of three legendary poets: Emily Dickinson, Linda Pastan, and Lord Alfred Tennyson.Emily Dickinson's "One Need Not Be a Chamber": Venture into the eerie corridors of the human mind, where Dickinson masterfully illustrates that the most profound hauntings come not from external specters but from our innermost fears and memories.Linda Pastan's "The Deathwatch Beetle": Experience a haunting narrative that echoes the style of Edgar Allan Poe...2023-10-2729 min
Words That BurnAn Interview with Irish Poet Jessica TraynorIn this special episode, I got a chance to chat with Irish Poet Jessica Traynor about her sequence of witch poems from her 2018 collection The Quick. Jessica Traynor is an accomplished Dublin-based poet whose work reflects her deep roots in Irish history, culture, and contemporary society. Her poetry is known for its intricate layering of personal and collective narratives, often delving into topics such as heritage, identity, the human experience, and the intersections of past and present.All this and more exist in her Witch Poems. They delve deep into the world patriarchy...2023-10-1827 min
Words That BurnThe Haw Lantern by Seamus Heaney In this episode, we reflect upon the profound impact of Seamus Heaney, celebrating the tenth anniversary of the poet’s passing by examining his poignant piece, "The Haw Lantern."We explore:The rich, multifaceted landscapes in Heaney's poetry, capturing the essence of Ireland with raw, genuine portrayals.Heaney’s unique ability to intertwine dense, academic poetic language with relatable narratives, allowing readers to experience and inhabit the worlds he depicts.Heaney’s intertwining of classical references and Irish folklore, from Diogenes's lantern to the symbolic Hawthorn Tree, weaving a tapestry of interconnected myths and truths.Heaney...2023-09-2716 min
Words That BurnOBIT [Ambition] by Victoria ChangWhat does it mean to truly grieve and can we ever move on from it?. In this episode, I explore OBIT [Ambition] by Victoria Chang, a poignant reflection on how we grieve not just physical deaths but abstract losses as well. Delve deep into the background of Chang’s 2020 collection, "OBITS", and understand the inspiration and intention behind her poetic obituaries. Join me in decoding this evocative poem that intertwines grief, ambition, memory, and more. Whether you're a poetry enthusiast or someone navigating the maze of grief, Chang's words will resonate deeply. The PoemT...2023-09-0617 min
Words That BurnEarth Presses Against Us by Mahmoud DarwishDelve into the poetic world of Mahmoud Darwish on this week's episode of Words That Burn. Uncover the heart-wrenching narrative of "Earth Presses Against Us" from his 1986 anthology, "Fewer Roses." .Often considered to be Palestine's most important poet, Darwish's poetic expanse narrates the profound pain and oppression of immigrants, particularly from the Palestinian perspective. Born in the Palestinian village of Birweh, Darwish became an emblem of resistance and a voice of lamentation after witnessing the demolition of his home by Israeli forces. Through poetic analysis, we trace the suffocating journey of a fleeing group...2023-08-0920 min
Words That BurnKnives We Used On Our SkinThis week's episode is deep dive into the unflinching poetry of Irish poet, Molly Twomey.It looks at the complex layers of Twomey's poignant masterpiece, "Knives We Used on Our Skin".This compelling exploration of the turbulence of youth, nestled in the serenity of the Irish countryside, presents a raw and intimate portrayal of the trials of adolescence.In this analysis, we'll traverse the emotional landscape of self-harm, adolescent insecurities, and the oft-overlooked connection between humans and the natural world. A must-listen for poetry lovers, and for anyone who seeks a...2023-07-1914 min
Words That BurnLove After Love by Derek WalcottDive into the realm of self-compassion and forgiveness in this episode of 'Words That Burn'. We delve deep into the transformative words of Nobel laureate Derek Walcott, particularly focusing on his acclaimed poem 'Love After Love'.Walcott's poetry shines a light on the intricate dynamics of self, identity, and culture within the larger context of Western literature. His powerful verses have not only earned him significant accolades, including the MacArthur Genius Grant, but have also stirred controversy and discussion amongst his contemporaries.In 'Love After Love', we explore how Walcott masterfully navigates the...2023-05-2415 min
Words That BurnMidnight In The Foreign Food Aisle by Warsan ShireWhen we are forced to leave a life behind, what price do we truly pay. This question is the one at the heart of Warsan Shire's poem Midnight In the Foreign Food Aisle.Join me as I delve into this incredible portrayal of her uncle. Warsan Shire can only be described as a poetry superstar, who has captured the attention of audiences worldwide. From becoming London's first young poet laureate to collaborating with none other than Beyoncé on her album LemonadeShire has made a remarkable impact in the world of poetry.But those achievements are o...2023-02-0816 min
Words That BurnCar Graveyard by Charles SimicHow can we make peace with an ending? Can we make peace with them at all. In this episode of Words That Burn, we'll be taking a closer look at the poetry of the late Charles Simic. The episode will focus on his poem Car Graveyard, a wonderful showcase of all the talents he possessed as a poet. The poem looks at a pivotal moment in the youth of the poet, whilst simultaneously deconstructing the oft overlooked side of the American Dream. Throughout, we will be sure to point out the themes and techniques that earned Charles Simic his...2023-01-2519 min
Words That BurnAn Interview With Irish Poet Luke MorganI have a chat with Irish poet Luke Morgan about his latest collection Beast and all the themes of shape shifting and transformation that are in it. We talk about the ways we carve out identities and the various metaphors and coping mechanisms we develop to navigate that.Luke Morgan's poetry collection "Beast" was published in 2022 by Arlen House. His debut, "Honest Walls" was published in 2016 when he was 22 years old. His work has appeared in numerous publications around the world. He is also an award-winning filmmaker. He lives and works in Galway, Ireland. L...2023-01-0433 min
Words That BurnCotton Candy On A Rainy Day by Nikki GiovanniChange is hard, it’s a well worn statement. It can be difficult for us personally to go through, it can be difficult for others to accept. Despite all that the hardest aspect of it may be when change fails to come and we are trapped in the same relentless situations. This poem, Cotton Candy On A Rainy Day, tackles change in its many frustrating forms. It comes at a point of tremendous change in the life of poet Nikki Giovanni. In many ways it symbolises a massive transition in the viewpoint and beliefs of the poet.2022-12-0625 min
Words That BurnA Bronze God, or a Letter On Demand by Clifton GachaguaWhat does it feel like when we burn for those we love? Do we burn more in their presence or in their absence? More importantly what is the line between love and worship? All these questions are tackled in Clifton Gachagua's A Bronze God, or a Letter On Demand. In it a speaker spills a monologue of devotion to their love, both their physical presence and the memory of them. Gachagua's imagery moves fluidly together, washing over the reader in a cascade of fragments and glimpses. It shows us how those we love can linger about us both in...2022-11-1418 min
Words That BurnHalloween Special 2022It can be easy to relegate Halloween to the realm of a kitsch festival every year but to do so would be a mistake. Here in Ireland Halloween or Oíche Shamhna, was an important festival for both recognising the dead and the beginning of the darker half of the year. There was a recognition that acceptance of that darkness was important. In this week's special Halloween episode I'm going to discuss three poems from three poets, each dealing with the supernatural in their own way. Those poems are:Her Kind by Anne SextonIn The Desert by Stephen C...2022-10-2826 min
Words That BurnHokusai by Anne CarsonWhere does practice turn to obsession? Is anger when pursuing perfection inevitable? These are two of the questions explored in Anne Carson's Hokusai. In the poem Carson takes a look at the later life of one of Japan's greatest artists: Hokusai. She creates poem of magical realism, one that allows the old painters daily ritual of painting lions to spring to life from the page.Using the poem Carson explores that frustration and subsequent anger that can arise from the creative mind. In the relentless pursuit of your best work, where should an artist draw...2022-10-0316 min
Words That BurnShadowboxer by Anne CarsonHow do we deal with trauma and regret? If we're honest, it's usually not well. This seems especially true for men. Difficult emotions around remorse, guilt and vulnerability are rarely expressed. In her poem Shadowboxer, Anne Carson looks at the toll that might take on the male psyche. Using the biblical parable of Longinus and infusing it with a contemporary edge, Carson explores the way in which some men retreat from their emotions and they price for that action.Show notes: https://wordsthatburn.substack.com/p/shadowboxer-by-anne-carson?sd=pf2022-09-2020 min
Words That BurnTired by Langston HughesShould we accept the world as it is? Harsh realities and all? Langston Hughes certainly didn't think so.In his poem Tired, he lures the reader in with a soothing recognition of the exhaustion of the modern world. Then quickly uses their attention to deliver a call to action for change and revolution. In this deceptively brief poem, everything that made Langston Hughes a leading figure of the Harlem Renaissance is showcased. There his ability to illustrate layers of meaning with simple and direct language. His innate gift to commune directly with his audience and...2022-08-2314 min
Words That BurnTorn by Ada LimónDo you ever feel at odds with yourself or the world around you? I think it's an unavoidable truth of being human to be torn on occasion. U.S Poet Laureate Ada Limón has certainly felt and recognised this in others. In this poem, Torn, Limón examines the nature of division and dichotomy through an unusual image; a dead snake. This dead snake becomes a treatise for the poet to explore how separation from yourself can feel but also a way in which we might find our way back to a sense of wholeness once more.2022-08-0821 min
Words That BurnMeditations In An Emergency by Frank O' HaraWhat should we do in a time of crisis? Become stoic? Take stock? Flounder in existentialism? In the case of Frank O' Hara, why not all three?In Meditations In An Emergency, the speaker finds themselves in a spiral of self-doubt and melancholy self loathing. All this happening in the wake of a separation from their love.Frank O' Hara creates a stream of consciousness to document the highs and lows of such a moment. It swings from tragic to hilarious in the space of jus a few short syllables and all with his incredible...2022-07-1931 min
Words That BurnThe Yearner by Rachel LongDo you ever wish for a blank slate? What would it cost?These are exactly the questions that Rachel Long's The Yearner hopes to answer.This week's poem looks at the pressures we all face in modern life and the toll our own experiences take on us.Rachel Long weaves solid poetic technique and a unique ability to create intimacy together to show the lengths some people will go to to escape those pressures.Show notes: https://wordsthatburn.substack.com/p/the-yearner-by-rachel-long?sd=pf2022-06-2718 min
Words That BurnSince Feeling Is First by E.E. CummingsIs love truly madness?It's certainly foolishness for Poet E.E. Cummings.In this episode I explore Since Feeling is First , one of his more famous love poems that looks at the way in which love almost always overrides reason. It is a fine example of the mastery Cummings held over form, grammar and syntax. On its surface it is a seemingly simple theme but, like all Cumming's works, that surface impression is just the beginning.The First E.E Cummings Episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0QTnL3ZYMzLKkbCBFCFTfK...2022-06-0918 min
Words That BurnSceimhle by Nuala Ní DhomhnaillWhat does Paranoia really feel like?It's an absolute nightmare according to poet Nuala Ní Dhomhnaill's Sceimhle. In this poem Ní Dhomhnaill fuses folklore and terror to create an allegory for a woman's experience in life. She weaves together a folkloric dreamscape in which to set all this. Death omens and portents of doom haunt every line as an unnamed character attempts to find any kind of refuge.If you're looking for an Irish language poem with some serious bite to it, this is the one.Find Ailbhe Ní Ghearbhuigh's Conriocht episode her...2022-04-2123 min
Words That BurnOutrageous by Stephen SextonWhat do you associate with the good times in your childhood? For Stephen Sexton it's Super Mario World, the classic 1991 video game for the SNES. In his truly moving poem Outrageous, Sexton takes on a journey of grief and possible consolation using the level as a lens. Memory and Reality merge together into a pixelated landscape that Sexton fills with emotion and exploration. It is all a stunning work of ekphrasis and a truly unique work of art.Substack Show Notes: https://wordsthatburn.substack.com/p/outrageous-by-stephen-sextonOutrageous Level Playthrough: https://www.youtube.com...2022-02-1022 min
Words That BurnThe Courage of Shutting Up by Sylvia PlathWhat is defiance exactly? Is it an act of bravery in the face of a tyrant? A bold battle cry against a Goliath? Or could it simply be a refusal to engage, to fuel, the passions of our abusers? The latter is certainly the case of this poem; The Courage of Shutting Up by Sylvia Plath. In the poem, Plath utilises her trademark mercurial imagery to paint a portrait of a woman long oppressed. She expresses the way in which words can be turned into weapons and how, sometimes, stoicism and silence can do more than any...2021-12-0127 min
Words That BurnHalloween Special 2021It's the season of things that go bump in the night! So in honour of Halloween I've brought you two poems about creatures that make a big bump.The first poem is Windigo by Louise Erdrich, a poem on the decaying spirit of cannibalism that haunts the North American wilderness.This is swiftly followed by Instructions for not becoming a werewolf by Abjgail Parry. A poem on battling the monsters within ourselves.Each one is sure to make you uneasy about what lurks just beyond the reach of the light....2021-10-2927 min
Words That BurnTo Autumn by John KeatsIs beauty more important than depth? Is nature the ultimate form of beauty? Do you believe in giving in to experience over rationality?If you answered yes to any of the above questions, then this week's poem is for you. This episode looks at To Autumn by John Keats, the final full poem written by his hand. In it Keats writes the ultimate tribute to his favourite season and in doing so cemented his position as one of the greatest poets ever to grace the English language. We will look at the way in which he...2021-10-2124 min
Words That Burnat half eleven in the Mutton Lane in, I am fire, slaughter, dead starlings by Doireann Ní GhríofaWhy do we find those who light fires within us? The people we know will burn us to the ground? The lure of chemistry and lust is a hard one to turn from and yet when we manage it, there is a quiet triumph to be felt.This battle of desire and restraint is explored in a subtle yet engaging way in this week's poem. at half eleven in the Mutton Lane in, I am fire, slaughter, dead starlin gs by Doireann Ní Ghríofa is, as the title suggests, a piece of verse that brims with wi...2021-09-2924 min
Words That BurnTwo Reflections by Seán HewittTo what extent can the natural world help inform our inner lives? More importantly can it paradoxically irritate and soothe some of the wounds we've managed to accrue? Séan Hewitt certainly seems to think it can. This week on the podcast I take a look at his poem Two Reflections from his collection Tongues of Fire. I take a look at the masterful way that he harnesses nature and the world of symbols and imagery that accompany to work his way through one of life's most difficult experiences: The loss of a parent.2021-08-2621 min
Words That BurnFame by Charlotte MewWhat lurks behind the glory days? Is there salvation in nature? Or has humanity moved to far forward in it's relentless pursuit of progress? These are the questions that Charlotte Mew puts to us in her poem Fame. Though all this hides her true question; Can we ever find a peace between our inner desires and social contracts? Charlotte Mew is surely one of the most tragic figures to emerge from the Victorian period of poetry. In this week's episode I take a look at her life and her struggles through one of her most beautiful poems...2021-08-0623 min
Words That BurnGravity and Center by Henri ColeIs love always a positive thing? How many forms can it take? More importantly, how can we learn to accept it. These are all questions tackled in Henri Cole's poem Gravity and Center. In this week's episode we look at Henri Coles uniquely direct and sometimes abrasive style of poetry. We examine the unflinching biographical elements of his work and his incredible ability to evoke emotions in readers.You can find a copy of the poem here: https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/57088/gravity-and-centerThe show notes for today's episode, with full references can b...2021-07-0819 min
Words That BurnGhazal by Mimi KhalvatiHow do we capture those brief and fleeting moments when we fall in love with someone? Might I suggest a ghazal? On this week's episode we take a look at Ghazal by Mimi Khalvati. Khalvati expertly navigates the rigorous Arabic form making it a perfect vehicle for the English Language. In the process of doing so she reconnects the native culture of her birth, Iran, with the adopted culture of her present, England. It is a poem that is a testament to all the wonderful feelings that accompany being in love.You can find a copy...2021-06-1521 min
Words That BurnLaertesCan we ever really value what we have in the moment? Will we always realise too late what we've lost? These are two of the key questions tackled by Northern Irish Poet Michael Longley's poem Laertes. A self confessed ''lapsed classicist'' Longley expertly retells the famous story of Odysseus reuniting with his father Laertes and in doing so explores the themes of loyalty, family, and memory. Using the classic myth Longley investigates not only his own past, but the troublesome one of his own country as well.You can find a copy of the poem here: h...2021-05-2621 min
Words That BurnNever to Dream of SpidersWhat responsibility do we have to use our voice? More importantly who is that responsibility to? If we were to follow the example of poet and activist Audre Lorde, the answer would be everyone. Throughout her life Lorde sought for the inclusiveness of all, no matter what colour, preference or ethnicity. She worked tirelessly to ensure that every soul had a voice. Using her own experience in her poetry to illustrate much broader points. In this episode, we look at the poem Never to Dream of Spiders which illustrates her commitment to drawing attention to wider issues even when...2021-05-1323 min
Words That BurnTiredHow do you grind through the day to day in a system that is designed against you? That is precisely the question at play in Fenton Johnson's poem Tired. Johnson was a figure of the Harlem Renaissance and this week's episode examines the movement and it's impact on African American Identity. Johnson's poem is the beleaguered cry of a man who has had enough from the society around him. It is a cry that is still resonates with listeners today.You can find a copy of the poem here: https://w...2021-04-2120 min
Words That BurnI Give You BackFear is one of our oldest companions and in many cases an unwelcome one. In her poem, I Give You Back , Joy Harjo explores the toxic and often suffocating relationship we can have with our fear. In this intensely biographical poem that showcases her own struggles with panic and anxiety, as well as her peoples struggles since the colonization of America. It is a poem that seeks to find way to heal from the wounds that trauma has dealt us and to do so in a compassionate and caring way.*TW: There is a mention of...2021-04-0718 min
Words That BurnEpicIreland might always be associated with the land. That's certainly the way it was for much of the 20th Century and while certain Irish poets sought to romanticise this connection between the land and it's people Patrick Kavanagh chose to do the exact opposite. Kavanagh was a poet who chose instead to look at every aspect of Irish society seeming to revel in the less polished side.In this poem Epic he looks at the narrow world view of those restricted by rural communities and settings. In doing so he exposes the short sightedness of the Irish...2021-03-2420 min
Words That BurnAn Interview with Katie CondonI was lucky enough to get to talk with poet and academic Katie Condon about her new poetry collection Praying Naked. In the interview Katie delves into what made her begin to write poetry, why it's often a refuge for her and just what it means to make poetry today. Her work encompasses so many different aspects ranging from an unflinching look at sexuality and desire, to challenging the narrative handed down to women through the generations.This special bonus episode is taken from my Irish Radio Show This Be The Verse.2021-03-1228 min
Words That BurnConriochtWhat happens when we completely lose touch with nature? What chaos could occur?That's exactly the question put forward by Ailbhe Ní Ghearbhuigh in this week's show. In her poem Conriocht she invokes a more primal version of Ireland to explore the territory of miscommunication and isolation all through the Irish language.It's seachtain na gaeilge this week in Ireland and so the episode is intended to bring you some poetry in the native Irish LanguageCad a tharlaíonn nuair a chaillimid ár nasc leis an dúlra? Cén saghas anord...2021-03-1216 min
Words That BurnThe PantherWhat does it mean to make art in the modern world? Is it for public consumption or is it simply for personal expression and achievement? More importantly what happens when we grind down the time we should be setting aside for creativity? All these questions and more are tackled in this weeks poem: The Panther by Rainer Maria Rilke. Rilke was a modernist master and manages to create a poem that resonates despite its brevity.You can find a copy of the poem here: https://wenaus.org/poetry/panther.htmlThe...2021-03-0414 min
Words That BurnOne ArtHow do you come to terms with loss? Is it simply part of life or should it be examined and carefully acknowledged? These are the themes and questions at play in One Art by Elizabeth Bishop. The poem looks at the difficulty of moving on from a loss and in some cases how it's simply not possible.You can find a copy of the poem here: https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/47536/one-artThe show notes for today's episode, with full references can be found here: https://wordsthatburnpodcast.com/...2021-02-1716 min
Words That BurnYou'd Think the Sky Would Run Out of WaterWhich poet gives love a grander form? Byron? Keats? Cummings? What about the everyday love. The kind of love that stumbles and doesn't flare into a phoenix like eruption? The kind of love that hesitates and takes its time? In that case, Todd Colby's got you covered. In this week's excellent poem, You'd Think the Sky Would Run Out of Water, he employs his usual blend of chaos and humour to show just how shaky love can be a times and why that's not a reason to fret too much.You can find a copy of...2021-02-1118 min
Words That BurnThe Act of CountingWho gives a voice to the displaced, the exiled, the lost? Someone who attempts to do so in every way is Nathalie Handal. In this poem, The Act of Counting , she takes us on a journey into the depth and breadth of loss that can be experienced by refugees and victims in the wake of cataclysms like the 2010 earthquake in Haiti. Within the poem we experience the slipstream of imagery that Handal has a mastery of, as well her uncanny ability to create a genuine voice for others.You can find a copy of the poem...2021-02-0320 min
Words That BurnSend No MoneyThis week I take a look at the poem Send No Money by Philip Larkin. It's a poem that focuses on many of the narratives given to us by society, the ways in which they are present and how, quite often, they can cause us to take a passive role in our own lives.The show notes for today's episode, with full references can be found here: https://wordsthatburnpodcast.com/You can get in touch with me on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wordsthatburnpodcast/...2021-01-2118 min
Words That BurnInner LifeThis week I take a look at the poem Inner Life by Ariana Reines. It is a poem that perfectly encapsulates the deeply personal kinetic style in which she writes her poem. It is a poem that will give you a new reference for anxiety and that will connect with anyone who has struggled to get through the day without thinking of someone. The show notes for today's episode, with full references can be found here: https://wordsthatburnpodcast.com/You can get in touch with me on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wordsthatburnpodcast/...2021-01-1317 min
Words That BurnSehnsuchtThis week's poem is one of exile and family dysfunction. André Naffis-Sahely has always been a poet who attempted to document the lives of people who fell victim to tragedy and as a result seemed to slip through the cracks of society. It just so happens that in this case it is his own mother.The show notes for today's episode, with full references can be found here: https://wordsthatburnpodcast.com/You can get in touch with me on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wordsthatburnpodcast/or by email : wordsthatburnpodcast@gmail.com2020-12-1713 min
Words That BurnAmberThis week I take a look at the poem Amber by Eavan Boland. It is a poem that speaks to the joy and pain of remembering a lost loved one through the objects they've left behind. It showcases Boland's talent for imagery and the fluidity of movement and experience she became famous for.The show notes for today's episode, with full references can be found here: https://wordsthatburnpodcast.com/You can get in touch with me on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wordsthatburnpodcast/or by email : wordsthatburnpodcast@gmail.comTh...2020-12-0912 min
Words That BurnThe Men are Weeping in the GymThis week I take a look at The Men are Weeping in the Gym by Andrew McMillan, a poem that looks at the devastating effects that toxic masculinity and body image issues can have on whole generations of men. The poem draws from historical movements like muscular Christianity and leaves the reader feeling as though they've been punched in the gut.The show notes for today's episode, with full references can be found here: https://wordsthatburnpodcast.com/You can get in touch with me on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wordsthatburnpodcast/or...2020-11-2616 min
Words That BurnBoy Breaking GlassRace and oppression were always at the heart of Gwendolyn Brooks and this particular poem was a watershed moment for her career. A poem brimming with necessary destructive energy and an homage to creativity in all it's forms.Find the poem here: https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/43322/boy-breaking-glass The shownotes for today's episode, with full references can be found here: https://wordsthatburnpodcast.com/You can get in touch with me on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wordsthatburnpodcast/The music in this weeks episode is Hiraeth by Scott Buckl...2020-11-1816 min
Words That BurnShooting Script, 1987This week I take a look at the poem Shooting Script 1987 by Inua Ellams. The poem is a dissection of the way in which race and culture inform our sense of identity but more importantly the way in which a race or culture can be misrepresented by media. Find the poem here: https://poems.poetrysociety.org.uk/poems/a-shooting-script-1987/The shownotes for today's episode, with full references can be found here: https://wordsthatburnpodcast.com/You can get in touch with me on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wordsthatburnpodcast/T...2020-11-0515 min
Words That BurnHalloween Special 2020Halloween is upon us and so I chose three poems to send a shiver down your spine and take a look at what makes them so memorable.. They are: This Living Hand by John KeatsAll Hallows by Louise GluckSamhain by John MontagueI hope it makes your Halloween just a touch eerier.The show notes for today's episode, with full references can be found here: https://wordsthatburnpodcast.com/You can get in touch with me on instagram: https://ww...2020-10-2818 min
Words That BurnEye ContactThis week I take a look at Eye Contact by Caroline Bird. It's a poem of pain and haunting in intimate relationships, with a dash of the surreal and Victorian gothic thrown in or good measure. I look at the way in which Bird uses metaphor and analogy to navigate the pains of the heart and raise difficult questions as to whether people can be free of their pasts.The show notes for today's episode, with full references can be found here: https://wordsthatburnpodcast.com/You can get in touch with me on ins...2020-10-1515 min
Words That BurnDerry MorningIn Memory of the Northern Irish poet Derek Mahon, who passed away last week, I took a look at his poem Derry Morning. Over the course of the episode I look at the way in which the poem investigates and dissects the effect that war and conflict can have on an area.The show notes for today's episode, with full references can be found here: https://wordsthatburnpodcast.com/You can get in touch with me on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wordsthatburnpodcast/or by email : wordsthatburnpodcast@gmail.comThe...2020-10-0716 minWords That BurnDido to AeneasThis week I take a look at the poem Dido to Aeneas by Barbara Guest. As a poet Guest tends to create pieces and verse of extreme beauty her language is a decadence all it's own. Often, she will choose to forgo obvious meaning in favour of a kind of lyrical tapestry. What I hope to show in this episode is that, despite this, her work resonates deeply with the human condition.The show notes for today's episode, with full references can be found here: https://wordsthatburnpodcast.com/You can get in touch with me...2020-10-0115 minWords That BurnChronosThis week I take a look at the poem Chronos by Nick Laird. Laird crafts a poem which all at once combines the gravitas of the classics with jarring modern flair. He touches on the universal theme of raging against time, which is a well worn path in the realm of poetry. That being said he still manages to make the theme uniquely his own.The show notes for today's episode, with full references can be found here: https://wordsthatburnpodcast.com/You can get in touch with me on instagram: https://www.instagram.com...2020-09-2313 minWords That BurnHome by StarlightThis week I take a look at the poem Home by Starlight by Paula Meehan. I'll be focusing on how Meehan uses the ancient history of Ireland to create a poem of lament for a lost time and lost knowledge. More importantly I'll examine how she uses her own knowledge of Irish custom and society to create a specific type of feminism for her country.The shownotes for today's episode, with full references can be found here: https://wordsthatburnpodcast.com/You can get in touch with me on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wor...2020-09-1616 minWords That BurnWhat Work IsThis week I take a look at the poem What Work Is by Philip Levine. I'll be focusing on how Levine tried his best to present the working classes in a new and dignified light, how he used an economy of language and love of physical description to engage his listen then, most importantly, how he examined the toll intense labour and poverty had on the human condition.A copy of the poem can be found here: https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/52173/what-work-isThe shownotes for today's episode, with full r...2020-09-0917 minWords That BurnThe Honey BearThis week I take a look at the poem The Honey Bear by Eileen Myles, I'll look at how Myles is able to capture the essence of any given moment of her life in sparse yet intense verse. How changing identity and milestone moments often give way to intense reflection.Find the poem here: https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/54619/the-honey-bear The shownotes for today's episode, with full references can be found here: https://wordsthatburnpodcast.com/You can get in touch with me on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wordsthatburnpodcast/...2020-09-0216 minWords That BurnSomewhere I have never traveled, gladly beyond.This week I take a look at the poem Somewhere I Have Never Traveled, Gladly Before by E.E. Cummings. I focus on how the poem encapsulates, not only the hallmarks of his style, but also how much he had grown throughout his career. This one has a little bit of everything: Paganism, Romanticism, life and death.The shownotes for today's episode, with full references can be found here: https://wordsthatburnpodcast.com/You can get in touch with me on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wordsthatburnpodcast/The music in this...2020-08-2613 minWords That BurnTrailerWhat do I do?I make a podcast about poetry.How do I do it?Fifteen - Twenty minutes on one poem per week . Analysing it and breaking down why it's good .Why?To help people better understand a form of literature I feel is more accessible than it gets credit for.Mission :To promote the accessibility of poetry in a way that everyone can understand . To avoid elitism and academic language where possible . To research every episode...2020-08-2501 min
MurdertownCroydon: The Murder of Nimal SamarasinhaAs the frost began to thaw on the morning of January 30th, 1992 in Wallington by Croydon, South London, Nimal Samarasinha and his family prepared for work and school. He left the house to warm the car up, and soon his daughter ran out to meet him, only when she got to the pavement, her father was lying on the ground - one forceful blow of a knife in his heart.Following each episode of Katherine Kelly's true crime TV series Murdertown, Benjamin Fitton from They Walk Among Us unpicks a new case from each location. Watch...2019-11-1832 min
MurdertownGrimsby: The Murder of Bernard ‘Bunny’ NewtonSix miles west of the Seaport town of Grimsby in Lincolnshire, is the tiny rural village of Irby upon Humber. On the evening of July 10th, 1991, Humberside Police were called to the home of a well known local family, the Newton’s, where shots had been fired. The owner of the house, Forty-five-year-old Clifford Newton was the eldest son and business partner of Grimsby millionaire nightclub and bingo hall owner Bernard “Bunny” Newton. Bunny and his sons had been in the club business since the early ’70s. When police pulled into the driveway of Cliffor...2019-11-1122 min
MurdertownNuneaton: The Murder of Terry MaidensIt was an ordinary evening in the January of 1994 when a knock came on the door of Catherine and Terry Maidens’ family home in Whitestone, Nuneaton. Through the window, Catherine Maidens could see there was a man wearing a motorcycle helmet, just like a pizza delivery guy, only the Maiden’s hadn’t ordered any pizza. Following each episode of Katherine Kelly's true crime TV series Murdertown, Benjamin Fitton from They Walk Among Us unpicks a new case from each location. Watch Murdertown exclusively on Crime+Investigation in the UK every Monday at 9pm and then straigh...2019-11-0417 min
MurdertownInverkip: The Disappearance of Margaret FlemingIn October 2016, police knocked on the door of a large cottage six miles southwest of Greenock, in the small Clyde Coast village of Inverkip, Scotland. They were looking for Margaret Fleming; a thirty-six year old woman who had been on long-term disability benefits. Only, Margaret’s carers said she had left their care years ago and would drop in when she wanted money. When detectives did some digging however, they would find that no one had seen Margaret for sixteen years.Following each episode of Katherine Kelly's true crime TV series Murdertown, Benjamin Fitton from They Wa...2019-10-2835 min
MurdertownBristol: The Murder of Jenny KingOn October 30th 1998, twenty-two year-old Jenny King left Chasers Nightclub in Bristol with a fiver that her brother had given her to get a taxi home. The following day, Jenny’s loved ones would realise she never made the mile to her family home in Warmley. Over the coming weeks, the residents of Bristol would question the shocking similarities between Jenny’s disappearance and that of Melanie Hall from nearby Bath just two years earlier.Following each episode of Katherine Kelly's true crime TV series Murdertown, Benjamin Fitton from They Walk Among Us unpicks a new case...2019-10-2128 min
MurdertownDarlington: The Murder of Ann HeronThe 3rd of August was the hottest day 1990 and County Durham had seen so far. That Friday would end up being the hottest day ever recorded in England at the time. So, when it came time for Peter Heron to come home for lunch to the fairly rural property on the outskirts of Darlington that he shared with his wife Ann, he was not surprised to find that she has been sunbathing in the yard. He would leave again an hour later, back to the office for meetings as Ann moved her sun lounger around to the front of...2019-10-1430 min
MurdertownMiddlesbrough: The Murder of Jessica PatelAt 8:20pm on the evening of May 14th, 2018, thirty-seven-year-old pharmacist Mitesh Patel phoned the Cleveland police in Middlesbrough, panicked and breathless. After returning from collecting a pizza and visiting his pharmacy, he had found his house burgled and his wife Jessica non-responsive on the living room floor, her wrists and ankles bound with duct tape. His voice was shrill as he told the dispatcher that he had put her in the recovery position, but she was cold. Within two minutes, the ambulance are heard in the background, arriving at the scene as Mitesh begins sobbing into the phone. Within...2019-09-3030 min
MurdertownNorth Wales: The Disappearance of Trevaline EvansOn Saturday June 16th 1990, fifty-two-year-old Trevaline Evans locked up the antique shop she owned in Llangollen, North Wales. Like many other days running a local business, she popped out to do a few things, leaving her customers a note on the door that read: “Back in two minutes.” Trevaline then purchased an apple and a banana up the road, and was seen two hours later, walking back towards her store “Attic Antiques.” Only the shop would not reopen that afternoon, and Trevaline would never be seen again.Following each episode of Katherine Kelly's true crime TV series M...2019-09-2332 min
MurdertownPortsmouth: The Murder of Linda CookOn the 9th of December 1986, the half naked body of Linda Cook was found in the grass and scrub of a pathway in Buckland, Portsmouth. She had been repeatedly kicked in the face, head and body after being raped. The only clue the Hampshire Constabulary had to go on was a footprint left on her abdomen, a mens trainer with a unique tread — the word “FLASH” imprinted on the sole. The killer would be dubbed ‘The Beast of Buckland”, and the crime became known as “The Cinderella Murder.”Following each episode of Katherine Kelly's true crime TV series Murd...2019-09-1642 min
MurdertownSeason 2: Murdertown returns with Benjamin Fitton (They Walk Among Us)The official Murdertown podcast is returning for season 2 on Monday's with Benjamin Fitton (They Walk Among Us). Are you ready to delve into the dark side of your town? These are the true crime stories from 10 more towns across the UK. Ten stories of people who might appear just like us — but are capable of evil.Get in touch to let us know which cases you'd like us to cover by using #Murdertown on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.Visit Murdertown, it's closer than you think.Crime+Investigation's Murdertown podcast is ho...2019-09-1502 min
MurdertownSeason 2 AnnouncementThe official Murdertown podcast is returning for season 2 this September with Benjamin Fitton (They Walk Among Us). Are you ready to delve into the dark side of your town? These are the true crime stories from 10 more towns across the UK. Ten stories of people who might appear just like us — but are capable of evil.Get in touch to let us know which cases you'd like us to cover by using #Murdertown on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.Visit Murdertown, it's closer than you think.Crime+Investigation's Murdertown podcast is ho...2019-08-0701 min
MurdertownBrighton: Clive Olive & the Sussex Mad DogsOn a cool evening in April,1973, a cargo ship came into Shoreham Harbour, near Brighton, West Sussex. Sailors watched the murky water below as the ship got closer to port, and in the water, close to the side of the ship, they noticed something bobbing around on the surface.Hauling it out, they found a bloated body, still wearing a jacket and trousers. There were no feet attached, and sticking out from the collar of the jacket— a skull, stripped of all flesh and hair, no eyes, just bone.What they had uncovered th...2018-11-0521 min
MurdertownTyne and Wear: The Merry Widow of Windy NookIn 1955, the small Tyne-On-Wear village of Windy Nook was like many other towns trying to build themselves back up to former glory days. The quarries were long closed, and many of the young residents had moved on to nearby cities like Sunderland or Newcastle in search of work.Mary and John Knowles had lived in their cottage in Windy Nook since they first married. When John died of suspected Tuberculosis at 76, no one thought twice. Mary would find comfort in someone close to her, a man who could fill the void of John, but it would...2018-10-2923 min
MurdertownHuddersfield: The Murder of Dorothy WoodIn May 1996, ninety-four year old Dorothy Wood said goodnight to her care worker who had come by to get her ready for bed. Profoundly deaf and crippled by arthritis, Dorothy struggled to complete even the most simplest of household tasks, but she was adamant she would keep her independence. The following morning when family friends arrived to help her out of bed and get her breakfast, they found that someone had broken into the house and Dorothy had been murdered. It would not take long for police to hone in on a suspect, but would they have the right...2018-10-2225 min
MurdertownWatford: The Murder Of Gary BennettEarly one February morning in 2010, local Watford refuse worker Gary Bennett was woken up just before 5 am with a nudge from his mum. He put on his work gear and walked out the door. Later that morning two schoolboys found Gary’s savagely beaten body in a local park. But how had Gary gotten there? He had not ridden his bike as he usually did, It wasn’t even on his route to work. Over the next few months, Hertfordshire Police would hone in on one man, but would they ever get all the answers?Following each...2018-10-1527 min
MurdertownBurton-on-Trent: The HeadmistressIn 1951, headmistress of the Burton-On-Trent High School, Winifred Mulley had dismissed six hundred girls for the Summer. Winifred lived in a house on the grounds of the school. She was signing off on a new home she had just purchased in Burton and was preparing to leave for her Summer holiday. She wasn’t feeling very well and so rather than leave that day for her trip; she decided to postpone it and get some rest. The following day when the domestic helper Mrs. Plummer knocked on the door, Winifred didn’t answer. Her bedroom door was locked and a cu...2018-10-0824 min
MurdertownVisit Murdertown with Benjamin Fitton (They Walk Among Us)Are you ready to delve into the dark side of your town? These are the true crime stories from 10 towns across the UK. Ten stories of people who might appear just like us — but capable of evil. These are the stories of Murdertown.Watch Katherine Kelly's Murdertown exclusively on Crime+Investigation in the UK every Monday at 9pm from 3rd September and then straight after listen to a brand new story right here with the Murdertown podcast.Crime+Investigation's Murdertown podcast is hosted by Benjamin Fitton, written by Anna Priestland, produced by Sam Pe...2018-08-2001 min