Eileen Myles reads 'Without' by Joy Harjo and their poem 'Dissloution'. The discussion explores themes of mortality, connection, presence, and absence in poetry. They reflect on personal connections to the poet, nature imagery, and the concept of being a two-minded creature. The hosts also anticipate new topics, discuss artistic evolution, comfort in creation, the essence of poetry, and engaging the reader in the poetic 'I'.
'Without' by Joy Harjo contemplates humanity's absence within the world, exploring themes of presence and political struggles.
'Dissolution' by Eileen Myles delves into Americanness, familial complexity, and the transformative nature of experience.
Deep dives
Exploring the Poem 'Without' by Joey Hargio
Eileen Miles, a writer with multiple literary accolades, discusses the poem 'Without' by Joey Hargio. Miles is drawn to the title and the spaciousness of the poem, emphasizing its intriguing imagery and thesis-like first line. The poem contemplates the world's continuity without humanity, touching on themes of presence and absence, political struggles, and the intimacy of shared experiences, concluding with a vision of unity amidst Earth's sorrows.
Analyzing Eileen Miles's Poem 'Dissolution'
Eileen Miles reads their poem 'Dissolution,' reflecting on personal experiences and cultural criticism. The poem captures a sense of Americanness and vernacular language, addressing themes of familial complexity, artistic creation, and the transformative power of experience. Through metaphorical coloring book imagery, the poem explores dissolution and the transient nature of art, inviting introspection and contemplation.
Impact of Times on Poetry Creation
Eileen Miles and Kevin Young discuss the influence of societal changes on poetry creation. They allude to how turbulent times, such as the pandemic and war, can spark poetic inspiration, prompting poets to respond to evolving circumstances. The conversation highlights the potency of poetry in capturing individual perspectives amidst collective experiences and the enduring relevance of personal expression in navigating challenging realities.
Eileen Myles joins Kevin Youngto read “Without,” by Joy Harjo, and their own poem “Dissloution.” Myles has published more than twenty books of poetry and prose. Their honors include the Publishing Triangle’s 2020 Bill Whitehead Lifetime Achievement Award, an American Academy of Arts and Letters Award, multiple Lambda Literary Awards, and a Guggenheim Fellowship.