Poet Ben Purkert reads Jorie Graham's 'Notes on the Reality of the Self' & his poem 'News.' They discuss self-discovery, nature's fluidity, and poetic creativity. Exploring themes of descent, luck, and surprise in poetry, with cultural recommendations.
Jorie Graham's poem explores self-discovery through the metaphor of a river, questioning identity.
The poem intertwines nature and language to reflect on the connection between landscapes and thoughts.
Graham challenges perceptions of reality by blending introspection with observations of a river's flow.
Deep dives
The theme of Self-Discovery in 'Notes on the Reality of the Self'
Jory Graham's poem 'Notes on the Reality of the Self' explores the concept of self-discovery through the metaphor of a river. The poet delves into the idea that the self is constantly evolving, mirroring the ever-changing nature of a river. The poem questions the essence of consciousness and the perception of one's identity. By portraying the self as a fluid entity influenced by external forces, Graham challenges conventional notions of selfhood.
The Intersection of Nature and Language in 'Notes on the Reality of the Self'
In 'Notes on the Reality of the Self', Jory Graham skillfully intertwines observations of nature with profound reflections on language. The poem uses vivid imagery of a river to evoke contemplation on the connection between external landscapes and internal thoughts. By infusing the natural world with linguistic depth, Graham highlights the inherent symbiosis between nature's elements and the human mind.
Poetic Engagement with Perception and Reality in 'Notes on the Reality of the Self'
Jory Graham's poem 'Notes on the Reality of the Self' delves into the complexities of perception and reality, challenging readers to reassess their understanding of the world. Through the poet's keen observations of a river's flow, the poem invites contemplation on the blurred lines between subjective experience and objective truth. By infusing the mundane scene with profound introspection, Graham prompts audiences to question the nature of existence and the constructs of reality.
Exploring Vulnerability and Uncertainty in 'Notes on the Reality of the Self'
In 'Notes on the Reality of the Self', Jory Graham delves into themes of vulnerability and uncertainty, inviting readers to navigate the intricacies of personal identity. The poem subtly probes existential questions surrounding the nature of the self and its relationship to external surroundings. Through moments of introspective vulnerability, Graham captures the essence of human fragility and the perpetual quest for self-understanding.
Capturing Moments of Contemplation in 'News'
Ben Perkert's poem 'News' offers a poignant reflection on the transient nature of news cycles and societal responses to environmental tragedies. Through vivid imagery, Perkert explores the contrast between media coverage and personal introspection, highlighting the fleeting attention granted to significant events. The poem challenges readers to contemplate the impact of global crises beyond sensational headlines, urging a deeper engagement with collective empathy and environmental consciousness.
Ben Purkert joinsKevin Youngto read “Notes on the Reality of the Self,” by Jorie Graham, and his own poem “News.” Purkert began contributing poetry to The New Yorker in 2012, and his début poetry collection, “For the Love of Endings,” was published in 2018.
