
Sounds Good with Branden Harvey
How Poetry Keeps Us Hopeful with Maggie Smith
Jul 26, 2021
Maggie Smith, an award-winning poet known for her viral work 'Good Bones' and the collection 'Goldenrod', discusses the transformative power of poetry. She shares her journey as a recovering pessimist and reflects on the challenges of parenting in turbulent times. The conversation delves into the balance of finding beauty while acknowledging injustice, emphasizing the importance of being present during grief. Maggie also explores the nuances of personal expression in poetry and offers insights on nurturing hope in a world filled with cynicism.
41:53
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Quick takeaways
- Maggie Smith emphasizes the transformative power of poetry in processing emotions, enabling deeper connections with personal and shared experiences.
- She discusses the evolution of her parenting approach, highlighting the need for open conversations about societal injustices in today's world.
Deep dives
The Power of Poetry in Emotional Processing
Poetry serves as a vital tool for processing complex emotions and experiences. The discussion emphasizes how engaging with poetry allows individuals to connect with their feelings, navigate difficult themes like grief and injustice, and even transform uncomfortable emotions into a source of strength. For example, the process of observing life through a poetic lens enables a nuanced understanding of personal and collective experiences, highlighting the importance of reflection in our daily lives. This act of noticing transforms poetry into a bridge for deeper empathy and connection with oneself and others.
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