

The Slowdown: Poetry & Reflection Daily
American Public Media
Host Maggie Smith is your daily poetry companion. Poetry is one of the greatest tools we have to wield our own attention — to consider our own lives and the lives of others, to help us live creatively and compassionately, to use that attention to lean into wonder, and joy, and truth, and to find hope — to keep hoping. The Slowdown community knows that reflecting on a poem, every weekday, can connect us to our inner world and the world around us. Listen as you make your morning coffee, as you go on a walk in your neighborhood, as you pull away from the to-do list, as you resist the dismal, endless scroll to share five minutes of perspective through the lens of poetry, from poets old and new, well-loved and emerging onto the scene. Brought to you by American Public Media, in partnership with the Poetry Foundation.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 19, 2024 • 6min
1264: The Room is a Rectangle by Marianne Chan
This discussion dives into the intricacies of mental health and family dynamics. A poignant Christmas Eve memory reveals the impact of bipolar disorder on relationships. The poem 'The Room is a Rectangle' reflects feelings of confinement and helplessness, encapsulating the barriers that arise from mental health struggles. Through poetry, the complexities of these experiences are explored with sensitivity and depth.

Dec 18, 2024 • 6min
1263: Film Theory by Xan Forest Phillips
Dive into the emotional rollercoaster that artists face when confronted with rejection. Explore how the highs of submitting poetry often clash with the lows of disappointment. The discussion highlights the transformative power of these experiences, emphasizing that love for one's craft can reignite creative passion. Reflect on the complexities of storytelling and the depths of the artistic journey, revealing the balance between vulnerability and resilience in the face of rejection.

Dec 17, 2024 • 6min
1262: The Future of Terror / 1 by Matthea Harvey
A haunting poem dives into the bizarre reality of violence, exploring its distortion of everyday life. Reflecting on a personal traumatic encounter from youth, the discussion reveals how deeply trauma influences growth. The conversation balances humor and sorrow, capturing the psychological impact of armed conflict. Through poetry, the complexities of joy within turmoil are thoughtfully examined, showcasing the transformative power of words.

Dec 16, 2024 • 5min
1261: Immersive by Joseph Millar
Discover the healing power of poetry as it navigates through personal disappointments and the chaos of life. Explore the profound connection between nature and human experience, with rich imagery that celebrates beauty in ordinary moments. The discussion emphasizes staying present and appreciating life's intricacies, encouraging a sense of renewal and connection. Join in a reflective journey that reorients our thoughts and emotions, reminding us of the strength found in poetic expression.

Dec 13, 2024 • 6min
1260: Fade Away by Amorak Huey
Discover the speaker's renewed love for vinyl, exploring the joy of wandering into record stores filled with nostalgia. The discussion on the raw textures of analog music perfectly mirrors the layers and disruptions of life's experiences. Dive into the fascinating exploration of song fade-outs, serving as a metaphor for life's transitions and personal milestones. This blend of personal storytelling and musical history highlights the connection between sound and existence, inviting reflection on the fleeting nature of time.

Dec 12, 2024 • 6min
1259: When you have to kill everybody in the room by Niki Herd
Today's poem explores the intricate relationship between masculinity and violence, highlighting the weight of societal expectations. It reflects on a childhood moment that faces the dualities of aggression versus vulnerability. The discussion intertwines firearms and domestic strife, painting a vivid picture of conflict in relationships. By using gun ownership as a metaphor, it probes deeper into the nuances of power, danger, and emotional struggles within the domestic sphere.

4 snips
Dec 11, 2024 • 5min
1258: The Trees by Jericho Brown
Delve into the transformative power of nature as friends reflect on its emotional and spiritual benefits. Experience the beauty and simplicity of the great outdoors, illuminated through Jericho Brown's evocative poem 'The Trees.' Discover how nature can cleanse the spirit and foster deep connections, turning chaos into love and acceptance. A poetic journey that celebrates the profound impact of the natural world on mental well-being awaits!

Dec 10, 2024 • 5min
1257: Time || Immemorial by Daniel Simon
A poignant exploration of grief reveals how art can emerge from loss, offering transformation and resilience. Personal reflections on September 11 underscore the enduring impact of tragedy on society. The discussion emphasizes poetry's vital role in processing trauma and fostering civic dialogue, challenging oversimplified narratives. Amidst chaos, hope finds its way through the written word, celebrating the power of poetry as a source of justice and engagement.

Dec 9, 2024 • 6min
1256: A Dominican Poem by Danielle Legros Georges
A moving poem delves into complex ideas of citizenship and the constraints of borders. It prompts listeners to reflect on the privileges they hold and inspires a sense of humility. Heartfelt stories of friendship shine through, particularly the bond between two immigrant friends facing life's challenges together. The narrative invites contemplation on personal connections and the delicate nature of home, making poignant connections between caregiver experiences and the struggles of identity in a turbulent world.

Dec 6, 2024 • 5min
1255: The Presence in Absence by Linda Gregg
Discover the transformative power of poetry as a means of reflection and connection. The discussion reveals how engaging with others' experiences fosters empathy and deepens our understanding. Delve into the emotional nuances of absence in Linda Gregg's work, where poetry navigates the delicate interplay of memory and sensation. Experience how words can bridge the gaps created by loss, illuminating the warmth and vulnerability of human connections even in separation.