How I Learned to Memorize Poetry
A Conversation with Poetry Memorization Expert, Matthew Stillman
The Poetry Vessel Podcast hosted by Malibu Poet Laureate ‘23-’25, Nathan Hassall, welcomes award-winning filmmaker and poetry memorization whiz, Matthew Stillman.
A Life-Changing Internet Encounter
A year ago, when I was in England visiting my parents, I received a call from a man I had been online “friends” with for a long time, but I knew little about him besides his name.
That day, we had been texting on Instagram about poetry and the esoteric, and it became clear that the conversation had reached a point where talking was needed. So he called, and I went outside, pacing back and forth on the stone walkway under the gaze of the cream Tudor house and the lazy, summer English sun.
Turns out his father used to be a manager for Weiser’s—a well-known occult bookstore—and he grew up around the familiar smell and excitement of books that explore the dark, the delightful, and the hidden.
We waxed lyrical about memory technologists like Giordano Bruno, a Renaissance philosopher, alchemist, and proponent of his own (complicated!) memory palace, who was eventually burned at the stake. His wide-ranging knowledge of philosophy, improv comedy, poetry, literature, and more was impressive; his verbal dexterity delightful.
He also had a knack—and a unique method—for memorizing poetry.
Why You Should Memorize More Poetry
In our fast-paced digital world, we often rely on our devices to store information. But when you learn how to memorize poems, you exercise your brain, improve your focus, and develop stronger emotional intelligence.
If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to memorize poetry fast, you won’t want to miss our latest conversation on The Poetry Vessel Podcast featuring Matthew Stillman (above).
Stillman is the host of "Committed to Heart, Committed to Memory," a specialized poetry memorization course that teaches participants how to truly embody the poems they love. During the podcast, he shares his insights on why remembering poetry is a vital act of reclaiming our humanity.
Friends of The Poetry Vessel
The Poetry Vessel is a community that’s dedicated to the transformative power of poetry. One of our goals is not only to uplift and feature poets, but also to provide helpful resources for those who want to continue to improve their craft.
Matthew told us in class that the best way for him to get new students is through word of mouth. Having found tremendous value in his class, I wanted to do just that.
That is why we’ve started Friends of The Poetry Vessel, a branch that includes poetry workshops, courses, and other 3rd-party resources that have earned our trust.
Matthew Stillman’s workshop, Committed to Heart, Committed to Memory, offers a masterclass in the art of memorizing poetry—and, I can say from personal experience, it is a lot of fun.
This is an intimate, high-impact program with limited spots available to ensure every participant receives personal guidance in their journey of verse memorization.
Join Matthew’s Workshop Priority List
Want to Commit Poems to Heart? Sign Up Soon!
The next "Committed to Heart, Committed to Memory" Workshop Starts March 2nd, 2026. Join the Priority List to find out more. Upon sign-up, Matthew Stillman will reach out with further details.
JOIN THE PRIORITY LISTFTC Disclaimer
Please note that some offerings featured on this page are affiliate partnerships, and The Poetry Vessel may receive a commission if you choose to engage with them. We only recommend work we trust. You can find out more at Friends of The Poetry Vessel.
