Kentucky State Poetry Society is thrilled to welcome poet and professor Clay Matthews for the second installment of our summer craft talk series. Mark your calendars:
September 16, 2025
7:00 PM ET
Live via Zoom (registration details on the Events tab of our website!)
In his talk, String Theory: An Exploration of Poetry that Employs Multiple Threads, Clay will help us unpack the hidden strings that hold a poem together. From musical compositions to circus acts, poems can be complex, layered performances—but when crafted intentionally, they sing. This session will explore how poets can weave disparate images, voices, and topics into a cohesive whole. Expect a blend of discussion, close reading, and prompts that will help you stretch your creative thinking and “knit together” something new.
Whether you’re a fan of Clay’s work or simply curious about how to braid complexity into your poems, this event will offer ideas and inspiration for all experience levels. These craft talks are only accessible to KSPS members. Ready to start your annual membership?
Already a member? Learn more about our craft talk series and, to Clay’s talk on September 16, bring the energy to explore poems that balance multiple threads—we’ll explore together how and why it works.
Kentucky State Poetry Society 