(original recording made in 1999)
Dick Lourie is a poet and a political activist. His poetry addresses
pertinent issues-he has an expressive power that can range from amusing
to astonishing. Some listeners might even be shocked by the words he
utters. He wants to evoke reactions, and he surely does. During this
interview he recited a poem he has written about racist names for
sports teams.
He specifically referred to the Cleveland Indians (they
finally changed that name), and the Atlanta Braves (they have not). The
way he chose to render this particular poem could have freaked out
listeners who were just tuning in and lacking any context for what he
was viciously exemplifying. He was making a point, one that still stings
today. 26 years ago his visit to the program caused a mild sensation. I
daresay that even after 26 years have elapsed his poems still sound as
sharp as sabers slashing at hypocrisy. I really enjoyed this conversation.
The Book Nook on WYSO is presented by the Greene County Public Library with additional support from Washington-Centerville Public Library, Clark County Public Library, Dayton Metro Library, Wright Memorial Public Library, and Tipp City Public.
