David Yearsley, of Cornell University, has written a delightful piece on The Sound Post’s favorite poet, August Kleinzahler.

In an article on counterpunch.org, Yearsley praises the fresh, “catholic and quirky” humor of Kleinzahler’s latest publication, Music I-LXXIV. He describes some of the more eclectic tales from the collection of musical essays, and admires the ways in which subjects such as criticism, nostalgia, and dedication are presented by the award-winning poet.

Kleinzahler’s tastes are both catholic and quirky, and while he often hides behind the armor of the amateur, claiming less than professional knowledge of his material, he writes about these staggeringly diverse interests with wit, warmth, and eye and ear for the unexpected. His take on music both obscure and canonic always refreshes, doing what the best criticism should do: providing new insights into classics, or prodding one to explore repertories previously unknown. Many collectors are bores. Kleinzahler is the most gracious of interlocutors.

From the Liberace Museum to Persian aub Zam Zam, by David Yearsley

In case you missed it, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Kleinzahler in October for an interview following the release of his latest work, Music I-LXXIV.

Exclusive Interview with August Kleinzahler.

Posted on January 24th, 2010 at 7:19 pm | Filed under General |