Episode 120: Fred Moten and Ronaldo V. Wilson (part 1)
Dec 28, 2023
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Poet and cultural critic Fred Moten and writer/scholar Ronaldo V. Wilson discuss their live performance readings at the Poetry Project, exploring the electrifying atmosphere and transformative power of poetry performances. They navigate audience expectations, reflect on performance and identity, and discuss the constraints of books in creative processes. The conversation delves into the interconnectedness of readiness, violence, and creativity in interactions.
The podcast focuses on enhancing poetry readings for live audiences by creating immersive experiences.
Artists discuss the intricate preparation and considerations for poetry performances.
Exploration of transformative power in poetry performances blurs boundaries between creation and expression.
Deep dives
Exploring Performance Reading of Poetry
The podcast delves into the artistic aspect of poetry readings, aiming to enhance the live experience for the audience. It discusses the exploration of transforming the podcast into a more live performance-like setting and highlights the importance of audience engagement and the performance background of poets. The conversation centers around creating a dynamic and immersive experience akin to attending a poetry reading or live performance, blurring the lines between studio recordings and live events.
Artistic Choices and Preparations for Readings
Fred Moten and Ronaldo V. Wilson share insights on their artistic considerations and preparations for poetry readings. They reflect on selecting their set lists for a recent performance, considering elements like the choice of poems and the interplay between live settings and audience responses. Moten discusses the spontaneity and thematic connections in his reading choices, while Wilson emphasizes the intertwining of personal experiences, visual art, and literary work in creating a comprehensive performance. Their deliberate and nuanced approaches underscore the intricate layers involved in preparing for poetry readings.
Transformative Power of Performance and Composition
The discussion expands to explore the transformative power of performances and composition in poetry. The participants contemplate the boundaries between performance, composition, and the ongoing nature of artistic expression. Moten and Wilson embody a constant state of preparation and openness in their creative processes, blurring distinctions between start and end points of readings. They emphasize the wave-like quality of artistic endeavors, where observation shifts to observance, revealing the richness and interconnectedness of creative acts beyond traditional constraints.
Books as Open and Unfinished Creations
Books are viewed as open and ever-evolving entities in this discussion. The concept of revising and marking copies with continuous updates emphasizes the dynamic nature of books. The idea that books lead to further creations and act as spaces for interaction and response is highlighted. The openness of books allows for continuous exploration and dialogue, shaping the artistic and intellectual landscape.
Violence, Brutality, and Readiness to Engage
The distinction between violence and brutality is explored, with an emphasis on the constant state of readiness to navigate challenging situations. The conversation delves into the idea of being prepared for encounters that may require a forceful response. The notion of being vigilant and assertive in the face of adversity is discussed as a necessity. This readiness is portrayed as a form of resistance and protection in the midst of societal challenges and expectations.
