From Poet to Teacher and Back: An Interview with Taylor Mali

themusedialogue — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 13:34:01 +0000

“I don’t see the world in a particularly unique way. People tell me I do, but I don’t think they’re being honest with themselves; I think I see the world just like everyone else. I just have the audacity to know that people will be entertained by an eloquent articulation of their own vision.” –Taylor Mali

Taylor Mali took the online world by storm with a video of his poem “What Teachers Make.” The video has over 5 million views and counting, and it has inspired students, teachers, and the rest of us to realize the truth of his poetic claim: “You want to know what I make? I make kids wonder.”

James Ranson recently talked with Mali on behalf of The Muse Dialogue, and we are pleased to share this interview as part of our series on poetry — and yes, it includes two fine video performances: “From Poet to Teacher and Back: An Interview with Taylor Mali.” (click here to see full text of interview).

Taylor Mali, poet and teacher