On the last podcast of April, On My Mind celebrates National Poetry Month by revisiting an interview with Billy Collins from November 2020.

When the pandemic began, poet Billy Collins, started livestreaming himself on Facebook, reading his own poems, and some favorites written by others. It was less to provide comfort, more to pass the time. But it struck a chord with fans, who began to tune in daily.

This wasn’t too surprising. For decades, Collins, former U.S. poet laureate, has held the unique title of “best-selling poet.” His work often examines the everyday, the domestic, and the personal. At 79, Collins had just published his 14th poetry collection, “Whale Day.”

In it, he turned his attention to mortality – but the poems aren’t morose. They are filled with Collins’ signature humor and an overwhelming sense of gratitude.