Catherine Pierce’s upcoming poetry collection, Dear Beast (Saturnalia Books, 2026), explores the blurred lines between humanity and the animal world. Pierce, a renowned poet and former Poet Laureate of Mississippi, has previously authored several collections and a memoir. Her works have been featured in prominent publications and have earned her accolades, including two Pushcart Prizes.

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In a conversation with Stacey Balkun, Pierce reflected on the central theme of her book where she delves into the concept of beastliness. In the poem "I’ve Known You All My Life," Pierce emphasizes the proximity of the beast within us, suggesting that wildness exists even in mundane aspects of life like family and home. She points out that we are fundamentally animals navigating our experiences with all of our longing and instincts.

Pierce characterizes the wolves in her poems—like the Wherewolf and the Whywolf—as sympathetic figures that grapple with human-like concerns, highlighting her intention to challenge the stark divide between “human” and “animal.”

Balkun noted the complexity of defining what a wolf represents within the collection. Pierce responded that a wolf embodies both its literal essence and symbolism, encompassing fairytale elements, wildness, danger, and tenderness.

The poems often reflect on the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, with most written during that time. Pierce explained that her initial struggle to write was followed by a wave of creativity as she processed her experiences, with the pandemic finding its way into her work.

Balkun praised the poem “This is How We Keep Going” for its brevity and imagery, which stands out among other expansive pieces. Pierce shared that this poem, while originally considered part of a longer sequence, eventually came to be recognized for its strength and clarity, leading her to position it as a standalone work within the collection.

Influenced by poets who excel in brevity, such as Andrea Cohen and W.S. Merwin, Pierce finds the titling of her poems to be a critical element, often developing organically throughout the writing process. She utilizes titles to establish links and provide deeper meaning beyond the poem itself.

Balkun highlighted the fairy tale influence in Pierce’s work, particularly as it intersects with the natural world. Pierce acknowledged that fairy tales hold a special place in her memory, merging caution with an alluring essence of nature, where the wilderness can be both beautiful and perilous.

Reflecting on her recent encounters in nature, Pierce invoked the concept of “deep magic” from her childhood readings—an intersection of wonder and storytelling that informs her poems. The conversation concluded with Balkun offering her congratulations on Dear Beast and expressing eagerness for future discussions.