Dear Yiddish: Poetry, Memory, and the Power of Language

Join acclaimed poet Richard Fein for a reading from DEAR YIDDISH, his deeply moving exploration of language, memory, and mortality. With fearless honesty and lyrical brilliance, Fein’s poems bridge the worlds of English and Yiddish, personal history and collective legacy.

Following the reading, engage in a lively Q&A with the poet himself—discussing his inspirations, his craft, and the enduring power of poetry to keep both language and life alive. Whether you’re a longtime admirer of Fein’s work or discovering his poetry for the first time, this is an evening not to be missed.

Richard Fein has published twelve books of poetry. His book Kafka's Ear has won the Maurice English Award. He has also published three books of his translations of Yiddish poetry: Selected Poems of Yankev Glatshteyn; With Everything We've Got; andThe Full Pomegranate: Poems of Avrom Sutzkever. Richard has also published three books of prose: Robert Lowell, a critical study; The Dance of Leah, a memoir of Yiddish; and Yiddish Genesis, a collection of personal essays.

Richard was born in Brooklyn, New York. He taught at Hunter College and the University of Puerto Rico before teaching many years at SUNY, New Paltz. He also spent a year on a Fulbright in India, teaching American literature.

Who are these classes for?

Our classes are for everyone—whether you’re brand new to the topic or have been engaging with it for years, we encourage participation from people of all backgrounds, identities, and experience levels. Unless otherwise noted, no prior knowledge or experience is needed. Not sure if a class is for you? Email us at Learning@Lehr.haus!

Why are there tickets at different prices?

Our tickets utilize a Pay-What-You-Can model so attendees can pay a range of prices based on what they are able to pay to allow for greater accessibility. Please select the price point that feels right for you.

Can I eat during class?

While we do not serve food in the study, you are welcome to order and enjoy drinks during class and join us for a meal before or after class. We highly recommend making a reservation if you know you'll be dining with us. Visit www.lehr.haus/reservation to check availability and book a table.