Ada Limón, the Poet Laureate, reads poems by Carrie Fountain and herself, exploring themes of self-acceptance, human connection, emotional impact, and the multifaceted meanings of titles. The podcast also delves into the fusion of poetry and nature, unveiling a nature poetry project that connects personal experiences in nature with cosmic themes.
'You Belong to The World' emphasizes self-acceptance and connection to the planet.
'Hell or High Water' celebrates familial music traditions and life's journey experiences.
Deep dives
Kerry Fountain's Poem 'You Belong to the World' Exploring the Permission to Be
Kerry Fountain's poem 'You Belong to the World' speaks to granting oneself the permission to exist authentically. In a fast-paced world filled with obligations, the poem encourages grounding oneself and embracing the reality of being present on Earth. With references to feeding the world and being part of a larger cycle, it conveys a profound message of acceptance and connection to the planet, emphasizing the importance of embracing one's place in the world.
The Poetic Journey through 'Hell or High Water' and Familial Singing Traditions
In Aida Limon's poem 'Hell or High Water,' the journey motif intertwines with familial singing traditions. The poem reflects on memories of singing in the car and at campsites, highlighting the bonding power of music within a family. The contrasts between journey songs and arrival songs are explored, capturing the essence of passing time and celebrating life's experiences through shared melodies and harmonies.
Reflections on Nature and Poetic Vision with 'You Are Here' Project
Aida Limon's 'You Are Here' project merges poetry with the natural world, celebrating the interconnectedness of human experience and the environment. Stemming from a mindful moment in a park, the project aims to unite poetry and nature through an anthology and park installations. Limon's endeavor embodies a poetic vision that encourages presence, connection, and exploration of the beauty found in both the external landscapes and internal realms of emotion and memory.
Exploring the Poetic Evolution and Legacy within the Poet Laureate Role
In her exploration of the Poet Laureate role, Aida Limon delves into the legacy and potential for innovation within the poetry landscape. Embracing nature as a central theme, Limon's projects aim to infuse poetic expression with new dimensions and engage audiences with the natural world. Through her multifaceted approach and commitment to poetic evolution, Limon embodies a profound dedication to the intersection of art, environment, and human connection.
Ada Limón joins Kevin Young to read “You Belong to The World,” by Carrie Fountain, and her own poem “Hell or High Water.” Limón is the current United States Poet Laureate and the recipient of a MacArthur “Genius” Fellowship. She’s the author of six books—including “The Carrying,” which won the National Book Critics Circle Award for poetry—and the editor of the forthcoming anthology “You Are Here: Poetry in the Natural World.