A Conversation with Billy Collins

The Creative Life Series conversation with Billy Collins, moderated by Joe Donahue Billy Collins is one of America’s favorite poets, celebrated for his wit and laugh-out-loud humor, as well as the friendly, conversational style of his poetry. His new book, Water, Water (Nov. 2024), features sixty poems about the joys and mysteries of daily life. A cat learns to drink from a swimming pool; a nurse calls a name in a waiting room; an astronaut recites Emily Dickinson from outer space—such common and uncommon events are captured here with equal fascination. The New York Times said, "Collins remains the most companionable of poetic companions." He served as US Poet Laureate from 2001 to 2003, and as New York State Poet under the auspices of the NYS Writers Institute from 2004 to 2006. The Creative Life Series is presented in partnership with the New York State Writers Institute and WAMC Northeast Public Radio Support for The Creative Life Series is provided by the University at Albany Foundation