Poetry, Practice, and the Wild Ethics of Love: A Conversation with David Hinton
Nov 20, 2024
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David Hinton, a prolific author and translator, dives into the interplay of poetry, love, and ecology. He elaborates on the Taoist concept of an 'empty mind' and its connection to self-realization and nature. Hinton critiques how technological advancements affect human consciousness and urges a rekindled kinship with the Earth. He also connects ancient Chinese poetry and Chan meditation, highlighting poetry's power to deepen our bond with nature. The conversation beautifully intertwines art, love, and our ethical responsibilities to the environment.
David Hinton emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with our kinship to the natural world to cultivate a deeper ethical responsibility towards it.
The discussion highlights a shift from interconnected Paleolithic societies to a more isolating Neolithic existence, causing a disconnection from nature.
Hinton advocates for embracing uncertainty as a means to understand our role in nature and foster meaningful engagement with its transformations.
Deep dives
Upcoming Events at Mountain Cloud
An upcoming event at Mountain Cloud, the Rohatsu Session, will take place from December 2nd to December 8th, co-led by Valerie and Henry. Although in-person attendance is currently on a waitlist, there are still many virtual spots available for those interested in participating. This session highlights the community's ongoing commitment to practice and connection, even amidst increased demand for remote participation in gatherings. For more details, individuals are encouraged to visit the Mountain Cloud website.
David Hinton's Contributions
David Hinton is recognized for his extensive work in poetry and translation, particularly focusing on ancient Chinese poetry and philosophy. His approach is heavily influenced by deep ecological thinking, as he explores themes related to Taoism and Chan Buddhism. Throughout his career, Hinton has received numerous accolades, including multiple prestigious fellowships and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Academy of Arts and Letters. His acclaimed works invite readers to reflect on the intersections between nature, poetry, and philosophy.
Nature of Self and Consciousness
Hinton engages in a profound discussion about the nature of self, consciousness, and their disconnection from the world around us. He posits that the human experience has shifted from the interconnectedness of Paleolithic societies to a more isolating Neolithic existence, which cultivates an ego-centric worldview. This shift, exacerbated by the advent of writing, has led to a sense of separation between humans and the natural world. Hinton emphasizes that true understanding involves recognizing the empty mind and the seamless integration of consciousness with the cosmos.
Wild Ethics of Love
The concept of 'wild ethics of love' emerges as central to Hinton's philosophy, suggesting that love for the natural world prompts an ethical responsibility to protect it. He argues that understanding our kinship with wild Earth deepens our emotional connection to everything around us, fostering a sense of compassion and urgency amidst ecological crises. Hinton reflects on how cultural assumptions shape our relationship with nature, and the shift towards recognizing intrinsic value in the environment is vital for true sustainability. He encourages the development of a new cultural narrative, rooted in reverence and stewardship, to navigate current and future challenges.
Embracing Uncertainty in Transformation
In addressing the looming sixth extinction, Hinton introduces a paradigm shift that perceives this ecological crisis as part of the natural cycle rather than an aberration. He emphasizes that humans are not separate from nature but rather an integral aspect of its ongoing transformation, similar to historic extinction events caused by natural forces. Accepting this perspective can catalyze profound insights about our role in the universe, inviting a tranquil acceptance of change. Hinton advocates for embracing uncertainty, suggesting that recognizing the fluidity of existence can lead to empowerment and meaningful engagement with the world.
David Hinton has published numerous books of poetry and essays, and many translations of ancient Chinese poetry and philosophy—all informed by an abiding interest in deep ecological thinking. This widely-acclaimed work has earned Hinton a Guggenheim Fellowship, numerous fellowships from NEA and NEH, and both of the major awards given for poetry translation in the United States: the Landon Translation Award (Academy of American Poets) and the PEN American Translation Award. Most recently, Hinton received a lifetime achievement award by the American Academy of Arts and Letters.
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