S2, Ep7: The Meaning of Poetry | How writing helps men process grief & anxiety

What if the first step toward healing isn’t talking, but writing? Creative expression can be a powerful tool for men’s mental health and emotional wellbeing.

In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak to poet and author Drew Horner about how writing, poetry, and creative outlets can help men navigate grief, anxiety, and emotional isolation. Drew shares his journey of using poetry as therapy during the pandemic and reflects on insights from his book My Life in Pieces.

In this episode you will learn:

• How writing and creative expression support mental health, emotional processing, and self-awareness

• The role of poetry in navigating grief, anxiety, and emotional isolation

• Practical ways for men to begin expressing emotions safely, even when talking feels difficult

• How creative outlets can foster resilience, healing, and personal growth

• Why putting feelings into words contributes to mental health awareness and emotional wellbeing

This conversation is essential for anyone interested in men’s mental health, creative therapy, emotional expression, grief processing, and personal growth, offering inspiration and practical insight into using writing as a tool for healing and self-discovery.

Hear more from Drew:

• My Life in Pieces: https://linktr.ee/TalesoftheNook?lt_utm_source=lt_share_link#275948678
• The Rage Whale movie podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6FSLdhTwH9WNMqcePFW31x?si=i_D4fXQfQMySjgRAqKQNXA&nd=1&dlsi=4e32c5bce1fd4008 (also on Instagram: @ragewhale_podcast)

Timestamps:

03:39: The Power of Poetry as Emotional Expression 06:51: The Journey of Discovering Poetry 13:38: Life in Pieces: The Meaning Behind the Title 20:48: Resilience and Rebuilding Through Adversity 25:35: The Essence of Poetry and Self-Expression 31:38: The Power of Poetry in Public Spaces 35:34: Exploring the Depths of Emotion 38:29: Mental Health and Vulnerability 41:29: Finding Meaning Through Poetry 44:29: Getting Started with Writing 52:19: Legacy and Impact of Drew's Poetry