About the author
Michael Favala Goldman is a translator of Danish literature, a poet, educator and jazz clarinetist. Among his sixteen translated books are Dependency (a Penguin Classic) by Tove Ditlevsen, The Water Farm Trilogy by Cecil Bødker, and Something To Live Up To, Selected Poems of Benny Andersen.
His eight poetry collections include the are award-winning, Small Sovereign and What Minimal Joy.
LATEST BOOK
Destinations
“I am an electric
part of the landscape,
charged with embodying
all the forces nature
provides”
In Destinations, Michael Favala Goldman confronts the reader with hope and frustration about where humans are headed. He mines the breakdown of bodies and relationships, and cultivates wonder at the nature of time and space. “Finally,” he writes, “there is an end, a kind of perfection/ When nothing can be other than it is.”
Poet and Speaker
Michael believes that literature is important because it can soften the shells around our hearts, helping us to feel more compassion for others and for ourselves.
Michael presents his poetry at festivals, classrooms, and gatherings both in-person and online.
He is available for poetry readings, interviews, lectures, and keynotes.
Translator
Translator of eighteen works of Danish literature, including poetry, short fiction, novels, non-fiction, memoir, and essays.
Michael translates the work of Danish writers who have something original and surprising to share, ideas that transcend national boundaries.
Instructor
Michael has been moderating poetry critique meet-ups since 2018, co-spopnsored by the Northampton Center for the Arts and Straw Dog Writers Guild. His philosophy with these sessions is to foster a community of poets and to provide concrete feedback that each poet can use to elevate their craft. Michael also teaches “A Poets Place,” a six-week class to foster poetic voice and poetic identity at the Northampton Center for the Arts. All poets are welcome to both programs.
Musician
Michael plays the bass clarinet and clarinet with his band, Now’s the Time.
They have performed at First Night Northampton, Cultural Chaos, Luthier’s Co-op and numerous other venues in Western Massachusetts. Sometimes Michael’s band accompanies his poetry.
He also has written and recorded numerous original songs, including one album, Tell Them Today.
Read Michael's Work
Full Bibliography
A complete list of Michael’s books and publications
Read More
You'll Also Love...
Click on the covers below to see more information about any book, including options to buy it.
Latest Updates
Click on the articles below for a variety of interviews and publications highlighting the impact of Michael’s writing.
Review of Destinations by Glynn Young, Tweet Speak Poetry
The Umbrella Opens: On Translation, Surprises and a 9th Book of Poetry
