Renowned poet and translator Stephen Mitchell discusses Richard Wilbur's 'Two Voices in a Meadow' and his translation of 'The Death of Argos' from Homer's Odyssey. Topics include Wilbur's influence, themes of surrender in poetry, the process of translation, emotional encounters in The Odyssey, and themes of recognition and married love in poetry.
Richard Wilbur's poem 'Two Voices in a Meadow' showcases his technical prowess and sensitivity to language.
Stephen Mitchell highlights the importance of surrender in poetry and the translator's role in capturing the essence of the original text.
Deep dives
Discussing Richard Wilbur's Poem 'Two Voices in a Meadow'
The podcast delves into Richard Wilbur's poem 'Two Voices in a Meadow,' read by Stephen Mitchell. The conversation highlights Wilbur's technical prowess and sensitivity to language, comparing his ear for verse with poets like Wallace Stevens and T.S. Eliot. The poem's thematic focus on surrender and the experience of yielding is analyzed, connecting to spiritual and Taoist traditions. The discussion explores the nuances of the poem's structure, meter, and the significance of the poignant portrayal of the dog, Argos, in Homer's 'The Odyssey.'
Interpreting the Theme of Surrender and Transformation in Poetry
Stephen Mitchell and the host explore the theme of surrender in poetry, drawing parallels between the act of yielding in poetry and spiritual practices. Mitchell emphasizes the importance of giving oneself over to something beyond oneself to create meaningful poetry. The conversation delves into the interplay between the translator's ego and transparency in capturing the essence of the original text while infusing their personality into the translation process.
Concluding Remarks on Translations and the Essence of Poetic Expression
In the final segment, Stephen Mitchell reflects on the art of translation, discussing the intimate connection between the translator and the original text. He compares the process of translation to a dialogue between the original work and the translator's interpretation, highlighting the subtleties and complexities involved. The discussion touches on the transformative power of poetry and the intricate balance between anonymity and personal expression in the translation process.
Stephen Mitchell joins Paul Muldoon to read and discuss Richard Wilbur's poem "Two Voices in a Meadow," and his own translation of "The Death of Argos," from Homer’s Odyssey.