LW28: Kevin Powers

In this episode, we sit down with poet and novelist Kevin Powers to reflect on his body of work and the experiences that shaped it—from his deployment in Iraq to his emergence as one of the most compelling voices in contemporary war literature. Acclaimed for The Yellow Birds, Powers explores the emotional toll of combat and the enduring struggle to make meaning of violence, memory, and return.

We delve into his literary origins, tracing his path from soldier to celebrated author, and discuss the tension between truth and fiction in war writing. Powers shares insights into his writing process, the responsibility of bearing witness, and why the novel remains a vital space for exploring the intimate, often invisible aftermath of war. Join us as we explore questions of morality, memory, and the enduring power of language in the face of loss.