NPR's Book of the Day Irish poet Pádraig Ó Tuama writes and reads poetry that speaks to the human condition
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Feb 26, 2025 Pádraig Ó Tuama, an Irish poet and the mind behind the podcast Poetry Unbound, brings his unique insights into the human experience. He shares how he curated his anthology, 44 Poems on Being with Each Other, exploring the intricate dance between fear and love in poetry. Ó Tuama discusses the emotional depth of his collection, Kitchen Hymns, revealing how poetry can serve as a secular form of liturgy. He also tackles the complex themes of belief and personal reflection, highlighting poetry's transformative power.
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Experiencing Poetry
- To best enjoy poetry, read it aloud yourself.
- Alternatively, listen to someone skilled in reading poetry, as it's a nuanced art form.
Curating the Anthology
- Pádraig Ó Tuama curated his anthology by categorizing poems based on their exploration of the human condition.
- He aimed to showcase poetry's ability to express diverse emotions, from joy to grief.
Human Connection in "Fear and Love"
- Ó Tuama discusses Jim Moore's poem "Fear and Love," which depicts a surgeon pausing mid-surgery to acknowledge a patient's request.
- This highlights the profound impact humans can have on each other, even in vulnerable moments.