LIKE A GOOD BOOK CLUB - September 2026 Meeting Audio

The final installment of the Book Club catch-up series features a lively discussion centered around a selection of poems that have influenced Tori Amos, including works by Sylvia Plath, E.E. Cummings, and Edgar Allan Poe. The meeting, held on October 4, 2026, delves into the emotional depth and thematic richness of the poems, with participants sharing their personal connections and interpretations.

The group explores the confessional style of Plath, particularly in her poem "Daddy," which evokes strong reactions due to its intense imagery and themes of familial relationships. Anne Sexton's work is also highlighted, with discussions on her poem "For My Lover Returning to His Wife," which presents a complex view of love and loss. The conversation shifts to E.E. Cummings, where the participants reflect on his unconventional style and its influence on Tori's lyrics, noting the playful yet profound nature of his poetry.

As the discussion progresses, the group touches on the haunting quality of Poe's "The Raven," celebrated for its rhythmic beauty and emotional resonance. The meeting concludes with a look at Annie Finch's "October Moon," which evokes themes of femininity and nature, and the connections to Tori's own work. The participants express excitement for the upcoming October meeting, where they plan to discuss Bram Stoker's "Dracula," further intertwining literary exploration with personal reflections.

Here we present the audio from our 21st book club meeting discussing poetry that has inspired Tori Amos -- Little Amsterdam (7 November 1996 - Omaha, NE)