Poet Donald Davie explores themes of death, art, and poetry in 'July, 1964'. The podcast delves into the significance of creative expression, the impact of mortality on artistic work, and the timeless value of poetry in human society.
Donald Davie's 'July' explores the role of poetry in the face of mortality and suffering.
The podcast highlights the essential nature of artistic creation as a reflection of human existence.
Deep dives
Exploring the Value of Poetry in 'July' by Donald Davy
Donald Davy's poem 'July' delves into the contemplation of the worth of poetry amidst mortality and suffering. The poet reflects on the deaths of fellow writers, prompting questions about the purpose of art and creativity in a world full of uncertainties. Through a free verse with a somewhat somber tone, Davy challenges the value of his and his peers' artistic pursuits, highlighting the existential inquiry that artists often face regarding the significance of their work.
The Intrinsic Necessity of Artistic Creation
The podcast emphasizes the intrinsic need for artistic creation as a fundamental aspect of human existence. It suggests that despite critiques and existential doubts, the act of creating art remains essential for individuals. By examining the motivations behind artistic endeavors across different periods and cultures, the podcast argues that creating art, whether poetry, sculpture, or painting, fulfills a fundamental human drive that transcends mortality and serves as a testament to our shared humanity.
Welcome back to Season 16 of The Well Read Poem podcast! Since summer is upon us, we thought it right to present six poems written on one subject or another in some way inspired by the present season. These works are of a diversity of hands, times, and moods, and we hope that they will add something pleasant to your reading life as the days and nights grow warmer.
Today's poem is "July, 1964" by Donald Davie. Poem readings begin at timestamps 3:30 and 7:29.
To learn more about Thomas Banks, visit HouseofHumaneLetters.com, and to listen to our flagship podcast, head to TheLiterary.Life. You can also find free downloadable, printable files with all the poems read on the podcast on our Well Read Poem webpage.
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