Poetry Unbound

Ellen Bass, a chancellor of the Academy of American Poets and a celebrated poet, brings her keen insights to the forefront. She explores the humor and complexity behind pet names, revealing how societal norms can limit our language of love. The conversation highlights the challenges of expressing deep emotions through everyday words, emphasizing the importance of affectionate language in nurturing relationships. Ellen’s reflections encourage listeners to rethink how they communicate affection and connect on a deeper level.

R.A. Villanueva, an acclaimed poet and author of 'Reliquaria', explores profound themes of trust and vulnerability in intimate relationships. He reflects on his wife's life-drawing class, where his feelings of jealousy and self-consciousness transform into a journey of consent and reciprocity. The conversation navigates the delicate balance between intimacy and insecurity, illustrating how art can deepen connections and foster emotional growth.

Zaffar Kunial, a Birmingham-born poet with Kashmiri roots, delves into the complexities of his immigrant father’s English in a revealing discussion. He reflects on his adolescent shame regarding his father's grammar, exploring how time has altered his perspective. The conversation navigates the intricate father-son dynamic, showcasing themes of cultural differences and personal growth. Kunial's insights also emphasize the importance of compassion and understanding within familial relationships, turning past judgments into a journey toward acceptance.

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.