Poet and performance artist Anja Notanja Sieger, based in Milwaukee, is breathing new life into the art of typewriter poetry. With her vintage typewriter in tow, Sieger transforms public spaces into interactive stages, offering a unique and intimate literary experience to those who cross her path.
Sieger’s approach to poetry is deeply personal. “I generally give people a thorough interview,” Sieger explained. “I want to know what they need to hear or who the poem is for and why that person matters to them. Even asking something like how their dog is different from others gets them thinking deeply.”
Her project involves setting up her typewriter in various public locations, from busy streets to quiet parks. Passersby can request a poem on any topic, and Sieger crafts each piece on the spot, typing it out in real-time. This spontaneous process not only showcases her improvisational skills but also creates a direct connection between poet and audience.
“I feel like I’m doing something meaningful when I write for people facing tough times or dealing with anxiety,” Sieger said. “I’m not a therapist, but through my art, I can offer them something therapeutic, and that feels really good.”
Beyond her public performances, Sieger’s typewriter poetry has been featured at numerous festivals and events, where her live sessions consistently draw eager crowds. Despite her experience, she still finds excitement in the unpredictability of each performance. “There’s always a risk, and I think that’s wonderful,” she said. “Even though I see myself as an expert writer, I’m still learning. In that way, I’m always an amateur.”