Author Tishani Doshi discusses the symbolism of college campuses and how they reflect life's unpredictability & messiness. The poem delves into themes of human resilience using egrets to symbolize ancestral connections & transformation amidst adversity.
Human resilience in the face of tragedy is celebrated through poetry, honoring emotions and truths.
The poem 'Egrets, While War' reflects on loss, transformation, and ancestral longing through vivid symbolism.
Deep dives
Exploring Philosophical Reflections on Learning and Order
The podcast delves into the idea of campuses as cultivated settings that convey order and rationality, masking the true messy nature of learning, experimentation, and protests. It reflects on the symbolism of traditional paths between learning spaces and the monastic roots of being a student, contrasting them with modern pathways defined by handheld technology. The concept of 'desire lines,' unplanned footpaths that symbolize human agency and resistance to boundaries, is highlighted as a representation of freedom and curiosity amidst structured environments.
Reflecting on Human Essence Amidst Tragedy
The episode presents a poem by Tashani Doshi titled 'Egrets, Wild War,' which poetically captures the essence of human resilience in the face of tragedy. The poem draws parallels between egrets and dinosaurs, reflecting on loss, transformation, and dispossession. It explores the longing for ancestral connections and the cyclical nature of fear and loss. Through vivid imagery and symbolism, the poem evokes themes of transformation, longing, and the relentless pursuit of truth amidst mystery and upheaval.
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Contemplating Campus Life and Spontaneous Paths of Learning
Today’s poem is Egrets, While War by Tishani Doshi.
The Slowdown is your daily poetry ritual. In this episode, Major writes… “Today’s compelling poem honors the ancient and indomitable essence of human beings who continue on even in the face of tragedy, who crossover into the perfect fullness of their truth and emotions.”
Celebrate the power of poems with a gift to The Slowdown today. Every donation makes a difference: https://tinyurl.com/rjm4synp
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