Worklife with Adam Grant Poet Maggie Smith on embracing ambiguity
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Nov 21, 2023 
Maggie Smith, a poet and author renowned for her viral poem "Good Bones," shares her insights on navigating complex emotions and embracing ambiguity in life. She discusses the delicate balance between hope and hardship, reflecting on how poetry can encapsulate human experiences. Maggie highlights the importance of asking questions without clear answers and accepting emotional ambivalence. The conversation also covers the transformative power of writing and the significance of recognizing both positive and negative feelings for personal growth.
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Viral Poem
- Maggie Smith's poem "Good Bones" unexpectedly went viral in 2016.
- It resonated with people because it acknowledges difficulty while offering grounded hope.
Metaphorical Math
- The darkness in "Good Bones" is metaphorical, not statistical.
- It represents the precarious balance of good and bad, a feeling that defies the often positive reality.
Shielding Children
- Maggie Smith wrote "Good Bones" when her children were young, shielding them from harsh realities.
- Now, with her daughter in high school, her focus has shifted to helping them navigate the news.
