KQED's Forum

How Poetry Serves Civic Life

Apr 3, 2025
Join Fresno Poet Laureate Joseph Rios, El Cerrito's Tess Taylor, and former San Francisco Poet Laureate Tongo Eisen-Martin as they explore the vital role of poetry in civic life. They discuss how poetry can bridge cultural gaps and foster empathy within communities. The guests unveil exciting projects, from new poetry curriculums to multi-generational workshops, aiming to inspire future poets. With personal reflections on place and identity, they emphasize poetry's transformative power in creating connections and promoting local narratives.
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ANECDOTE

El Cerrito Love

  • Tess Taylor initially disliked El Cerrito's working-class aesthetic.
  • Writing poems about it helped her see its beauty and eventually return home.
ANECDOTE

Fresno's Richness

  • Joseph Rios, deeply rooted in Fresno, highlights the city's often-overlooked cultural richness.
  • He emphasizes the contributions of immigrants and farmworkers, correcting common misconceptions.
INSIGHT

San Francisco's Complexity

  • Tongo Eisen-Martin's poem explores complex social dynamics in San Francisco.
  • He uses vivid imagery and stark language to depict inequality and social injustice.
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