Marie Howe

Marie Howe, the poet in residence at The Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine and a recipient of the 2025 Pulitzer Prize for her collection, discusses the profound role of not knowing in poetry. She shares how writing acts as a form of prayer, helping us confront life's difficulties and embrace uncertainty. Howe reflects on her personal journey through loss, spirituality, and the transformative nature of acceptance. With insights influenced by Christian mystic Meister Eckhart, her anecdotes illuminate the deep connections between poetry, nature, and the divine.

Marie Howe, the former Poet Laureate of New York and a Pulitzer Prize-winning poet, shares her insights on the intimate connection between language and the body. She explores Mary Magdalene's complex role as a symbol of feminine strength and reflects on the wisdom of deceased friends in her life. The conversation spans eco-poetry, the profound effects of grief, and the deep listening required to engage with the world around us. Marie's vibrant readings showcase her unique ability to weave personal experience with universal themes.

Marie Howe and Lucie Brock-Broido delve into the intricacies of poetry, exploring themes of childhood memories, societal changes, and the importance of unanswered questions. They discuss the symbolism of stars, bewilderment in poetry, and the unique voice each poet brings to their work.

Marie Howe’s poem “My Mother’s Body” is wise about age. In the poem, Marie’s mother is young enough to be Marie’s own daughter, and in this imagination there is wonder, understanding, and even forgiveness. A question to reflect on after you listen: Are there things that you have found easier to understand — or even forgive — as you’ve gotten older?About the poet:Marie Howe is a chancellor of the Academy of American Poets. She’s published four collections of poetry: What the Living Do, The Good Thief, The Kingdom of Ordinary Time, and Magdalene. She has taught at Sarah Lawrence College, Dartmouth College, and New York University.“My Mother’s Body” comes from Marie Howe’s book The Kingdom of Ordinary Time. Thank you to W.W. Norton, who published the book and gave us permission to use Marie’s poem. Read it on onbeing.org.Find the transcript for this episode at onbeing.org.The original music in this episode was composed by Gautam Srikishan. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Marie Howe, an award-winning poet known for her poignant exploration of loss and spirituality, shares her insights on the moral life and the power of language. She reflects on her brother’s death and how poetry serves as a healing medium. The conversation touches on the significance of family dynamics, the influence of a Catholic upbringing, and how art can transform pain into beauty. Howe also delves into the essence of Mary Magdalene, examining themes of identity and acceptance through the lens of history and scripture.