Celebrated poet, author, professor and broadcaster, Michael Rosen reflects on finding joy after tragedy and adversity, discussing the role of play, absurdity, and curiosity. He shares his personal experience of grief and coping mechanisms, including honoring and remembering loved ones through commemorative activities. They explore the role of curiosity in coping with death and emphasize the importance of hope and embracing joy in life.
Finding joy in everyday moments is essential for navigating through tragedy and adversity.
Writing can be a powerful tool for processing emotions, finding relief, and embracing the absurdity of life.
Deep dives
The Power of Joy and Laughter in Life
In this podcast episode, celebrated poet and author Michael Rosen discusses the importance of joy and laughter in life. Rosen shares how his own personal tragedies, including the sudden loss of his son and his battle with COVID-19, have taught him the significance of finding joy in everyday moments. He emphasizes the sensation of joy, describing it as a lightness and elation that brings a smile both inside and out. Rosen also reflects on his writing career, particularly his work for children, and how it has allowed him to connect with young audiences and bring them joy. He encourages embracing absurdity and finding fun in the everyday, highlighting the role of writing in processing emotions, finding relief, and sharing experiences. Rosen concludes by discussing the NHS and the need to support and strengthen it for the flourishing health and well-being of everyone.
The Presence of Death and the Mind-Body Connection
Rosen opens up about his personal experiences with death, including the loss of his son and his own near-death experience with COVID-19. He delves into the idea that death is always present among the living, shaping our thoughts and memories. While he doesn't believe in an afterlife, he explores the notion that our existence continues in the minds of those who knew us. Rosen reflects on his physical recovery and the changes in his body, highlighting the role of humor and absurdity in coping with difficult situations. He shares the importance of finding joy in the midst of trauma and the power of writing as a way of unfolding thoughts and emotions, allowing for reflection, change, and even finding the humor in personal experiences.
The Value of Writing and the Blank Page
Rosen discusses the therapeutic benefits of writing, highlighting its ability to change and shape how we see ourselves. He emphasizes the blank page as a friend and a nonjudgmental space where we can freely express our thoughts and emotions. Rosen points out that writing allows us to externalize our feelings and contemplate them from a different perspective. He shares how writing lists, jotting down random thoughts, or unfolding ideas can offer relief, clarity, and even the opportunity for transformation. Rosen encourages embracing the absurdity and fun in writing, describing it as a way of playing with our thoughts and experiences and finding joy in the process.
The Importance of Supporting the NHS
Rosen expresses deep gratitude for the NHS and the care he received during his battle with COVID-19. He highlights the immense dedication, compassion, and teamwork of the healthcare professionals who saved his life. Rosen voices his concerns about the current state of the NHS, emphasizing the need for increased support and funding. He advocates for the flourishing of the NHS, stressing its vital role in providing social and compassionate care. Rosen concludes by articulating his hopes for any authority, government, or individual to contribute to the wellbeing and success of the NHS.
How do you find joy in the aftermath of tragedy or immense adversity? Celebrated poet, author, professor and broadcaster, Michael Rosen has had to learn to do just that after his son passed away suddenly from meningitis aged 18. Michael himself also came close to losing his own life twice, the second time to Covid in 2020. Despite this, in 2023, he was awarded the prestigious PEN Pinter Prize for his ‘ability to address the most serious matters of life in a spirit of joy, humour, and hope.’
Michael has been involved in writing over 140 books, including the beloved, award winning children’s classic ‘We’re going on a bear hunt’. His latest book is ‘Getting Better: Life lessons on going under, getting over it, and getting through it.’
For Joy Month on Changes, Michael discusses how play, absurdity and curiosity all play a part in finding joy, the duality of joy and grief and shares why he thinks everyone can use writing to help them have a more joyful existence. It’s a beautiful episode and an important reflection on joy.