Modern Metamorphoses

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Modern Metamorphoses: Episode 2

The Poet Librettists

Episode 2

BBC Radio 4 - Modern Metamorphoses, Episode 2Search BBC

How poets are dealing with the bodily transformations made possible by modern science.

Michael Symmons Roberts continues his exploration of metamorphosis and poetry by examining the various ways science and technology might transform our bodies in the future.

In the second episode of this three part series, Michael Symmons Roberts considers how poets and artists are reacting to the various ways science and technology are already transforming our bodies and will continue to do so in future - in sometimes extraordinary ways. 

Keisha Thompson discusses her new work about gene-hacking, while Jill Magid describes the reactions of her parents to her decision to transform her ashes into a diamond in the name of art. 

Michael also considers how other bodily transformations have become so much a part of our modern lives - in the form of Marvel movies and body-building, for example, or tattooing, as discussed by Andrew McMillan and Helen Mort respectively. 

Rachel Mann describes the difficulties of articulating the physical elements of her transition as a trans woman in her poems, while Jorie Graham urges caution in accepting the metamorphic possibilities offered by technology simply because they are available.


A TBI production for BBC Radio 4

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

Factual: Arts, Culture & the Media: Arts

Michael Symmons Roberts hears how poets today are offering new perspectives on Ovid.

In his new series on poetry, change and the body, Michael Symmons Roberts hears how poets today are offering urgent new perspectives on Ovid's great work, Metamorphosis.

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