Poetry Unbound

Dilruba Ahmed, an acclaimed poet and author of 'Bring Now the Angels,' dives into the complexities of self-forgiveness. She shares a moving poem that lists personal grievances, repeating 'I forgive you' as a mantra for healing. The conversation uncovers how personal struggles foster compassionate understanding and the nuances of motherhood in the journey towards self-acceptance. With rich imagery, Ahmed encourages listeners to embrace vulnerability, reminding us that forgiving ourselves is crucial for loving others authentically.

Layli Long Soldier, an acclaimed poet and recipient of the Lannan Fellowship, discusses her impactful work stemming from a U.S. Congress resolution on Native histories. She emphasizes the importance of acknowledging grief and trauma through poetry. The conversation also touches on the significance of authenticity, especially in emotional expressions within families. Observing her child's journey highlights the power of vulnerability, illustrating how words can bridge the gap between internal struggles and external acknowledgment.

Chen Chen, an acclaimed poet and educator at Brandeis University, discusses the intricacies of family relationships in the context of his poem where he invites his parents to a dinner party. He shares the humorous yet poignant tensions of introducing his boyfriend to his parents. The conversation reveals the challenges of seeking acceptance and navigating expectations during intimate family gatherings. Chen's reflections on love, connection, and the awkwardness of coming out make for a compelling dialogue on acceptance and communication.

Nuala Ní Dhomhnaill, a renowned Irish poet, passionately tackles the pressing issue of language preservation. She reflects on the fragility of lesser-spoken languages and the urgent need for nurturing, likening it to the story of Moses. The conversation dives into the intricate ties between language, culture, and identity, particularly in the context of women's voices. Nuala shares heartfelt stories and poetic nuances of the Irish language, emphasizing hope for revitalization and the beauty found in linguistic heritage.

In this conversation, Aracelis Girmay, a talented poet from Southern California residing in New York, delves into the intricate connection between the body and the act of writing. She explores the stories told by our hands, whether open or closed, and the intimacy involved in writing letters and poems. Girmay emphasizes mindfulness in the creative process and invites listeners to reflect on the gestures behind their writing. Her insights reveal the deep emotions and histories embedded in each stroke of the pen.

Tayi Tibble, a gifted writer and poet from New Zealand, explores the profound connections we share with our chosen families, particularly through the lens of her cherished grandmother. She delves into the rich tapestries of loyalty, love, and loss, painting heartwarming images from her childhood, like preserving wishbones in an old container. Through moving reflections on funerals and cultural rituals, Tayi reveals how these experiences shape our identities and memories, offering a deep sense of nostalgia and community bonds.

Paul Tran, a recipient of the prestigious Ruth Lilly and Dorothy Sargent Rosenberg Poetry Fellowship, dives deep into the realm of self-exploration in this engaging conversation. He unpacks the symbolism of caves, representing the secrets and stories within us all. Listeners are invited to reflect on their own journeys and the ancestral connections that shape our identities. Tran's unique insights illuminate the balance of bravery and solitude in exploration, blending personal narrative with universal themes that resonate with every listener.

Philip Metres, an acclaimed poet and author, dives into the intricacies of conflict through his poem 'One Tree,' which revolves around a neighborly dispute. He unpacks how different reactions—avoidance versus collaboration—can influence outcomes in personal conflicts. The discussion extends to the metaphor of land and borders, reflecting on identities shaped by geographic divisions. Metres also emphasizes love's power to reshape conflict dynamics, illustrating how trust and imagination can foster understanding even in challenging situations.

Roger Robinson, a talented writer and performer from Trinidad and London, dives deep into the concept of 'paradise' in his poetry. He reflects on the wisdom passed down from his grandmother about holding onto hope and beauty amidst life's challenges. The discussion reveals how personal and collective experiences shape our inner sanctuaries. Robinson's work highlights resilience and the power of memory, urging listeners to embrace their own 'A Portable Paradise' while navigating a complex world.

Seán Hewitt, a fiction reviewer for The Irish Times and an accomplished author, dives into the themes of isolation and belonging in this engaging discussion. He explores the mythical character Suibhne, who embodies the tension between solitude and connection. Seán reflects on his own experiences with loneliness, contrasting chosen aloneness with the pain of enforced isolation. The conversation beautifully weaves in poetry, highlighting how nature can provide solace amidst emotional turmoil, ultimately celebrating the bittersweet complexity of human emotions.