The New Yorker: Poetry cover image

The New Yorker: Poetry

Amber Tamblyn Reads Didi Jackson

Sep 27, 2024
Amber Tamblyn, a celebrated writer, director, and actor, joins poet Didi Jackson to explore the emotional layers of their works. They delve into the vibrant imagery and themes of loss in Jackson's poem "The Dahlias," emphasizing nature's cycles. Tamblyn shares insights from her poem "This Living," discussing love and grief's complexities. The pair also touch on the blend of humor and pain in poetry, highlighting the evolution of language and the dualities of human experience that shape storytelling.
31:21

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Didi Jackson's poem 'The Dahlias' masterfully contrasts vibrant natural imagery with themes of loss and the inevitability of decay.
  • Amber Tamblyn's 'This Living' explores the complexities of human experience through humor and poignant observations, reflecting life's cyclical nature.

Deep dives

The Allure of The Dahlias

The poem 'The Dahlias' by Dee Dee Jackson captivates with its vivid imagery and emotional depth. Amber Tamblyn is drawn to its opening line, which sets a compelling tone that invites readers into the poem's exploration of themes like change, loss, and the passage of time. The poem effectively uses natural imagery, juxtaposing the vibrancy of dahlias with the inevitability of decay, creating a haunting reflection on life's cycles. Tamblyn highlights the way unexpected turns in the poem can evoke a sense of surprise and longing, ultimately portraying the beauty found within the fleeting nature of existence.

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