Oh my God.
[LAUGHING]
Thank you.
That was beautiful.
And that was beautiful, Steve.
You did the right thing reading something new.
A real pleasure to hear your work and get to know you a bit.
And a thrill to read with my longtime friend and hero, one
of my favorite writers, one of my favorite people, Karen Brennan,
whose new book I really can't wait to hear her read from.
I don't think I have yet.
And thanks to Tyler and Cybele and everyone
for inviting me here.
What a room.
This is a real honor.
I've known this place for--
I've lived here for two years but I've known the Poetry
Center for 16, I think?
I've taught three classes here and have
volunteered in different ways.
And the first time I read here was 15 years ago
with Richard Siken.
And it's great to be back up here.
So on that note, I want to read the shortest poem
in this book, A Several World.
It's called "Thank You Mood."
There weren't any giggles so there
aren't any devoted viewers to Project Runway in this room.
[LAUGHING]
This poem doesn't happen to be about Project Runway
but it is called "Thank You Mood."
"I rang the doorbell with my voice.
I was home.
I forgot that could happen.
An occasional hoot to find indoors the bell ringing,
ringing still.
Recommender thereby of bells.
Answerable man high in his range.
Where can I submit this preference over digital?
This morning neighbors, my attentions were lifted.
Lifted by my spirits.
I forgot that could happen."