The Slowdown: Poetry & Reflection Daily 1397: Palinode by Lisa Low
Nov 17, 2025
Today's discussion centers around the concept of a palinode, where a writer reconsiders their previous views. The host connects this to the idea of changing one's mind as a sign of growth and maturity, rather than weakness. A poignant reading of Lisa Low's poem illustrates a mother's complex emotions and the nuances of retraction in writing. It’s a compelling examination of how we depict others in words and the power that poetry holds to reshape perspectives.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Flip-Flopper Framing In 2004
- Maggie Smith recalls the 2004 election attack on John Kerry calling him a 'flip-flopper'.
- She situates her frustration in valuing nuance and reconsideration, shaped by poetry and experience.
Changing Your Mind Is A Strength
- Maggie argues that changing your mind indicates maturity and intellectual agility.
- She frames reconsideration as strength, not weakness, and ties it to growth and new information.
Raise Kids To Embrace Growth
- Maggie recommends valuing fixed core values while staying flexible in thinking.
- She advises raising children to accept growth, change, and evolving viewpoints.