Poet and philosopher David Whyte delves into breaking surface conversations, humor as spiritual practice, body's role in art, being a 'real artist,' and vulnerability in creative work. Emphasizes deep listening, embracing silence, restoring childhood wonder, and exploring vulnerability for growth and authenticity.
Deep listening is crucial for authentic poetry and self-discovery.
Embracing vulnerability enhances creativity and connects to inner identity.
Deep dives
David White's Journey to Becoming a Poet and Philosopher
David White's upbringing, influenced by his Irish mother's storytelling and singing, sparked his deep connection to language. As a child, he experienced a profound sense of presence through familial stories, laying the foundation for his poetic journey. Through encounters with poetry books, such as those by Ted Hughes and Thom Gunn, he felt unexpectedly drawn into the world of poetry, setting him on a transformative path of writing and self-discovery.
The Link Between Poetry and Deep Listening
David White emphasizes the importance of deep listening as a core aspect of poetry and personal discovery. Referring to Derek Mahon's words, he highlights the power of a 'watchful heart' as the source from which genuine, resonant poetry emerges. This practice of deep listening, acknowledging the 'empty space beneath the breath,' fosters a connection to the authentic, unguarded expression of the inner self.
Embracing Vulnerability and Authenticity in Artistic Expression
David White delves into the necessity of vulnerability in artistic endeavors, emphasizing the soul's journey of authenticity. He encourages embracing vulnerability as a pathway to genuine creativity, urging individuals to navigate the discomfort of exposing their true selves in their work. Exploring the dynamic interplay between surface personas and profound internal truths, White advocates for robust vulnerability as a means of connecting with one's deeper identity.
The Profound Significance of Honesty and Soulful Exploration
In his work on redefining vulnerability and encouraging introspection, David White touches on the soul's quest for honesty and self-expression. By delving into profound themes such as vulnerability, authenticity, and deep listening, he guides individuals towards a richer understanding of their inner selves and the transformative power of embracing vulnerability in artistic and personal journeys.
listening to david whyte reminds me of something I had long ago forgotten. his words, written and spoken, feel like a homecoming. there is permission within them to lose oneself in the questions and the listening. to simply arrive at what is here, waiting for me. for us.
david calls this “the empty space beneath the breath where everything real emerges.”
david is a poet and a philosopher. he is the author of nine books of poetry and four books of prose, including his two most recent books, the bell and the blackbird and consolations: the solace, nourishment and underlying meaning of everyday words.
he is a speaker, teacher and writer. but more than anything, david is a man devoted to the mystery and expression of the soul. a man whose job in life is to “get it” and then to poetically, magically, beautifully, reveal it to us.
some things we talk about:
how to break the surface conversation and enter into the one that belongs only to you
sense of humor as a spiritual discipline
the role of the body in art and how to come into the traumatized parts from your past
what it means to be a “real artist”
being visible and vulnerable in your work and life
learn more about david, BEYOND, and other brave and experimental artists here: https://daphnecohn.com/
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