*The Poet and the Echo* by Leila Aboulela is part of a collection of contemporary stories inspired by poems and writers from the past, originating from the BBC Radio 4 series. Each piece is a modern author’s response to a classic poem, infused with the original writer’s poetic vision. The stories explore various settings, from the Scottish Highlands to Italian palace gardens, and deal with themes like balancing love and duty, uncovering family secrets, and grappling with personal changes and losses. The collection highlights human connections, emphasizing love and hope even in unexpected circumstances.