Poets House programs seek to make a meeting place for poets and poetry readers of all aesthetic leanings. Providing time at the end of each presentation for questions from the audience, and followed by wine and cheese receptions, Poets House programs create a unique forum for give and take between artists and audiences. All Poets House programs are available on audiotape in the library. Be sure to check our complete schedule of upcoming events or browse our cumulative program list.

Passwords — Poets discussing the work of other poets

Passwords programs make the link between a vast poetic heritage and the voices of poets living today. Each Passwords program provides an in-depth exploration of the work of a particular poet, through reading and critical analysis. Usually one poet discussing the work of another, Passwords programs can also take the form of larger tributes, panel discussions or symposia. Often, these events seek to increase our understanding and appreciation of poets whose work is in danger of being overlooked or taken for granted.

World Poetry Events

A meeting place for poets from around the world, Poets House has a tradition of celebrating poetry in all languages, from all parts of the globe. Many International Poetry events are presented as Passwords programs, others as symposia, still others as bilingual readings.

Paul Zweig Memorial Lecture — Lectures in the craft of poetry

An annual lecture on the craft of poetry is presented in honor of Paul Zweig, an early collaborator in the founding of Poets House. Poet, philosopher and literary critic, Paul Zweig died in Paris in August 1984. The bequest of his personal library began the Poets House collection.

Conversations on Poetics

These conversations invite some of the most rigorous poetic theoreticians of our time to discuss the ideas and the processes of thought that inform the myriad choices that together make the poem.

Seminars and Workshops

Poets House seminars seek to provide an in-depth reading of selected texts, together with an opportunity to discuss the work in a small group settings. Workshops provide an opportunity to work closely with an expert on some aspect of writing or publishing your work.