Poetry Unbound

Palestinian poet and scholar Mosab Abu Toha shares poems about longing for return to a place of hospitality and memory in Gaza. He explores themes of family, identity, and resilience through his reflective narrative. The podcast delves into the emotional journey of the poet and his family navigating challenges amidst geopolitical turmoil and conflict.

Greek-language poet Constantine P. Cavafy's poem 'Waiting for the Barbarians' explores themes of deception, manipulation, and societal complicity. The poem delves into the sinister nature of leadership and the fabrication of fear to maintain power. It prompts reflection on the consequences of tolerating deception in society and the impact of false fears on individuals and communities.

Joy Harjo, 23rd Poet Laureate of the US, discusses conflict resolution through poetry, emphasizing humility, justice, and land acknowledgment. Explore the interconnectedness of all beings and the importance of understanding our place in the world through her powerful verses.

Join host Pádraig Ó Tuama in exploring conflict and humanity through poetry with special guest Wisława Szymborska. Delve into Szymborska's 'A Word on Statistics' as it prompts reflection on human behavior, self-awareness, and personal change.

Explore the emotional significance of a jar of maraschino cherries in Thomas Lux's poem, reflecting on desire and nostalgia. Discover the beauty in ordinary language and the mix of humor and tragedy in poetry. Delve into the vivid imagery and sensuality of the poem, creating a vibrant contrast between ordinary items and vibrant colors.

Rita Wong, author of poetry collections, delves into the profound relationship between rain, water, and life. She explores the imagery of rain landing on various surfaces, the role of water in daily life, and the importance of clean water for environmental activism. The podcast analyzes Wong's poem 'flush' and a quote from Thomas Merton, celebrating the poetic beauty and vitality of rain.

Maria Dahvana Headley, author of Beowulf: A New Translation, discusses the enduring relevance of the ancient epic poem. Topics include power, exclusion, valor, translation challenges, monstrousness, heroic code, and imperfections in contemporary society.

Michael Klein, two-time winner of the Lambda Literary Award for poetry, discusses his poem 'Swale' inspired by a horse race from the 1980s. The poem celebrates good company, books, food, and honest work. Klein reflects on the profound connection between animals and the impact they had on his life. He explores the soul and beauty of Swale, expressing gratitude for the joy and sorrow horses have brought him.

This podcast explores the blend of the visceral, the inherited, and the self-made that holds our bodies together. It delves into the concerns and physical wounds of an immature black eagle and the speaker's experience of losing their younger brother. The symbolism and references in the poem are discussed, as well as themes of observation, emotional suppression, physical wounds, and human tragedy. The customs of suppressing emotions as a coping mechanism for grief are explored. The deep emotions and experiences conveyed through the physicality of the eagle and bear in the poem are examined, along with themes of identity, nation, sovereignty, and grief. Mention of the author's book 'Manifestation Wolverine' and podcast production credits.

Poet and playwright Suji Kwock Kim discusses her poem about the North Korean-Chinese-Russian border, reflecting on memory, loss, and identity. The podcast explores the impact of borders on people's lives and the power of language and art in expressing experiences. It delves into the speaker's search for a lost grandfather and the convergence of past and present.