Recognising the power of the written word, poets are expressing more than just emotions in their craft, they are commenting on a myriad of social, political, and cultural issues prevalent in society today. 'PoetsTalk' explores the poet behind the words, taking on the 'hard questions' about the role of poets in society and addressing the challenges of reading 'difficult' poetry. Readers will thoroughly enjoy Robert Kroetsch's enlightening thoughts surrounding postmodernism's history, the innovative dialogue with Fred Wah about ethnic hybridity, and Dionne Brand's musings on postcolonial struggle and community. Erin Moure encourages the concept of 'excessiveness' while Daphne Marlatt speaks of 'salvaging'. On writing, poetics, and culture, Marie Annharte Baker and Jeff Derksen share their personal perspectives and experiences. Over numerous cups of steaming, hot coffee with co-editors Pauline Butling and Susan Rudy, these seven poets of diverse region, gender, sexual orientation, race, and generation discuss their unique approaches to writing and reveal the need to strive for innovation in artistic and cultural production. A provocative compilation of candid interviews worthy of a spot on any bookshelf, 'Poets Talk' reiterates the value of inspiration, imagination, and poetic re-invention. 'Poets Talk' is recommended for readers of poetry, scholars, and students of Canadian and postcolonial literature and serves as a literary contribution to the study of these poets and their work.