Donika Kelly, award-winning poet, reads Mary Oliver's '100 White-Sided Dolphins' and her own poem 'Sixteen Center'. They discuss nature's beauty, poetic structure, family history, and the power of storytelling through poetry.
Donika Kelly connects personal experiences with nature in poetry, reflecting shared moments of wonder and kindness.
Kelly's poem '16 Center' explores family history, intertwining memories and warmth to capture the complexity of relationships.
Deep dives
Exploring Connections Through Poetry
The episode features poet Danica Kelly discussing Mary Oliver's poem '100 White-Sided Dolphins on a Summer Day,' highlighting its connection to her own experience of seeing dolphins. Kelly explores the delight and gratitude in Oliver's work and how it reflects shared moments of wonder and kindness.
Navigating Memories and Stories
Kelly delves into her own poem '16 Center,' which reflects on a conversation with her grandpa about their family history. The poem weaves together memories, past troubles, and shared moments, capturing the warmth and complexity of family relationships.
Reflecting on Historical Moments
The episode intertwines personal storytelling with broader historical events like the insurrection and impeachment, framing them within the context of intimate family discussions. This blend of personal and political moments adds layers of meaning and depth to the poetic reflections shared.
Honoring Family Heritage Through Poetry
Kelly's forthcoming book, 'The Natural Order of Things,' promises to continue her exploration of family, memory, and personal growth through poetry. By honoring her roots and experiences in her work, Kelly creates a poetic narrative that reflects on the natural flow of life and relationships.
Donika Kelly joins Kevin Young to read “One Hundred White-Sided Dolphins on a Summer Day,” by Mary Oliver, and her own poem “Sixteen Center.” Kelly is the author of two poetry collections, and the recipient of an Anisfield-Wolf Book Award, a Cave Canem Poetry Prize, a Hurston/Wright Legacy Award, and a Kate Tufts Discovery Award. A founding member of the collective Poets at the End of the World, she teaches at the University of Iowa.