The magic of great entertainment partly comes down to its ability to cast a spell, to pull you into its unique universe and let you leave your own world behind.

“Martian: The Saint of Loneliness” is a poetry collection brimming with confidence, voice, and presence; it firmly plants its feet, unafraid to be seen or heard, for better or for worse.

Burt, who owns accomplished artist James Cagney’s signed painting, tells of wanting a second artwork from him. And Mr. Cagney’s reply? “Tell that cheap bastard he can’t have another one.” ...