Anja Notanja Sieger, a poet and performance artist based in Milwaukee, has revitalized the art of typewriter poetry, captivating audiences with her unique approach to literary expression. Sieger brings poetry to the people, transforming public spaces into impromptu stages for personal and poignant poetic exchanges.
“I generally give people a very thorough interview process where I want to know what they need to hear right now or who is it going to and why and why does that person make them a better person,” Seiger said. “Or how is their dog different from all other dogs? You know, I get in there with people.”
Sieger’s typewriter poetry project involves setting up a vintage typewriter in various public locations—from bustling street corners to serene parks—and creating custom poems on demand. Passersby can request a poem on any subject, and Sieger crafts each piece spontaneously, typing it out in real-time. This interactive process not only highlights her improvisational talent but also fosters immediate, intimate connections between the poet and the audience.
“I feel like I’m doing a good thing when I’m writing for people who are going through a difficult time or struggling with anxiety,” Sieger said. “I mean, a lot of times I’m stepping into a role that like therapists offer, but I am an artist and so I’m giving them therapeutic art and that feels good.”
Sieger’s dedication to typewriter poetry extends beyond public performances. She has been featured at numerous festivals and events, where her live poetry sessions draw enthusiastic crowds.
“There’s always a risk, and I think there’s something kind of wonderful about that because I get to feel like I’m forever an amateur,” Sieger said. “Even though I consider myself an expert writer, I also don’t think I’m done learning. And so in that way, I am very much an amateur.”
