A Conversation about Poetry & Leadership

Once upon a time, Michael Dickman was a cook at Zingerman’s Delicatessen. Now, he’s an award-winning poet and Princeton University creative writing lecturer. Michael shared a taste of his latest book, “Pacific Power & Light,” at Zingerman’s Roadhouse earlier this month. Afterward, he and Zingerman’s Co-founder Ari Weinzweig discussed how poetry helps people pause, notice details that typically get lost in the hustle and bustle, and make unexpected connections between ideas.

Engaging with poetry benefits people in all kinds of professions, according to Michael. His students from Princeton often email him this discovery after they become doctors, lawyers, stockbrokers, and more.

“They often say, ‘This has changed what my life is like, whether they’re working in an ER or teaching at an elementary school,” Michael told the audience. “They felt that something was missing, and poetry helped them find it.”

Ari remarked that poetry is not only a missing piece but a tool for navigating challenging situations. It helps him process stressful world events and reflect on his personal journey as a leader.

“New situations call for new tools, and poetry is one of them,” Ari said.

Michael also told the story of how “The Captain’s Verses,” a poetry collection by Pablo Neruda, ignited his poetic imagination in high school. It happened at an unlikely moment: after a friend dragged him into the local mall’s bookstore.

“I’d never read a whole book before,” he admitted. “I read it from cover to cover and cried at the end. I’d never had that experience before.”

Michael read a poem from this book and a few other favorites, then dared the crowd to create five-line poems with a series of crowdsourced words: alligator, Panama, patty melt, periwinkle, and running, plus the title “All Night Long.” At least 40 new poems resulted, each wildly different from the next.

Deli Chef and Managing Partner Rodger Bowser was one of those audience members. He and Michael Dickman became fast friends on the job more than 20 years ago.

“Never in my life have I been as creative as when I was working with Michael,” Rodger explained. “He got what I was trying to do and provided inspirational energy I can still feel when he’s in the room. This workshop took me back instantly.”

Don’t miss the next one!

Check out all the upcoming events at the Roadhouse.