Recorded March 12, 2015
Although Welsh poet Dylan Thomas died in 1953 at age 39, his influence on poetry and literature is eternal. American poet Sylvia Plath frequently cited Thomas as one of her influences, and five films were based upon Thomas’ works, including "Under Milk Wood" (1972), starring Richard Burton, Elizabeth Taylor and Peter O’Toole.
But it was Robert Zimmerman, later known as Bob Dylan, who may have played a most significant role in introducing Dylan to younger generations. There is a spirited debate as to whether this famed singer/songwriter’s name was a nod to Dylan Thomas, whose poetry he did acknowledge had influenced him. Bob Dylan’s lyrical style, and even the types of songs he chose to write, are often compared to the style of Thomas. Conflict is a central theme in both men’s poetry. In his famous poem “Do not go gentle into that good night”, Thomas confronts mortality. For this poet, conflict often addressed social issues.
The author of "Deep Down in the Delta" (Butler Center Books), Brownderville based this collection of folkloristic poems on fieldwork he conducted around his home community of Pumpkin Bend, Arkansas. His third book, a collection of poems entitled "A Horse with Holes in It," will be released soon by LSU Press. An assistant professor of English at SMU teaching creative writing with an emphasis on poetry, Brownderville notes, “My sensory delight in language is at the heart of my work both as a poet and as a teacher of poetry writing.”
