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 5, 2024 • 4min
1254: That's My Heart Right There by Willie Perdomo
A poignant reflection on the emotional depth of love unfolds through a personal lens. The narrator shares a moment of heartbreak witnessed early one morning, sparking thoughts on vulnerability and the blues. Nostalgic memories of a grandfather's songs weave through the narrative, emphasizing how music can express our wildest emotions. The featured poem captures these themes, inviting listeners to celebrate the raw power of poetry and its ability to connect us to our deepest feelings.
Dec 4, 2024 • 5min
1253: On the Death of a Young Lady Five Years of Age, a reinscription by Aracelis Girmay
Today’s discussion revolves around the legacy of Phyllis Wheatley Peters, the first published Black female poet, highlighting her profound impact on American literature. A poignant poem reflects on loss and childhood, weaving together themes of grief and the beauty of existence. Vivid imagery invites listeners to meditate on nature's delicate ties to life. The celebration of contemporary Black female poets showcases the enduring power of poetry to inspire and provoke thought. It's a heartfelt exploration of both history and the human experience.
Dec 3, 2024 • 6min
1252: The Canonization by John Donne
Dive into the world of forbidden love as classic poetry sheds light on the clash between personal desires and societal norms. Discover how John Donne's work celebrates love as a fundamental human freedom. The discussion explores love's transformative power, uniting people spiritually and physically, while poetic imagery suggests love's immortality through art. Tune in for a reflection on love’s essential role in our existence and its ability to inspire a fuller life.
Dec 2, 2024 • 6min
1251: On Living by Nâzim Hikmet, translated by Randy Blasing and Mutlu Konuk
The discussion revolves around the poem 'On Living' by Nâzim Hikmet, emphasizing the beauty in everyday moments. It captures the vivid imagery of nature and fleeting joys, contrasting them with personal struggles. The speaker reflects on how joy can emerge unexpectedly, even when life feels weighed down by challenges. The exploration of hope and the emotional complexity of living is both poignant and uplifting, celebrating the resilience of the human spirit.
Nov 29, 2024 • 6min
1250: 52 Blue by Sappho Stanley
Dive into a heartfelt exploration of the ocean's mysteries through poetry. Enjoy a whale-watching experience filled with humor and anticipation, culminating in a breathtaking encounter. Reflect on the poignant song of the solitary 52 Blue whale, symbolizing deep longing and the struggle for connection. This poetic journey intertwines nature and love, inviting listeners to ponder the depths of existence.
Nov 28, 2024 • 5min
1249: Farmers' Market by Molly Fisk
The poem explores the nostalgia of family gatherings, especially for an introverted kid who now cherishes these moments. It highlights the contrast between loneliness and the warmth found in familial love. The speaker reflects on the joyful chaos of holiday rituals, finding deeper meaning in connections with loved ones. They evoke the festive atmosphere of a farmer's market, symbolizing emotional nourishment and the longing for meaningful interactions. It’s a celebration of togetherness and the value of shared blessings.
Nov 27, 2024 • 6min
1248: Listening to Monk's Misterioso I Remember Braiding My Sisters' Hair by Christopher Gilbert
Dive into the profound relationship between music and personal memories, where even simple audio setups can create impactful experiences. Discover the intimate act of two sisters braiding hair, illustrating the beauty of shared moments. The conversation also highlights the nuances of improvisational music, showcasing how intentional discordance can resonate deeply. Celebrate the power of poetry as it captures life's fleeting connections and invites us to truly listen.
Nov 26, 2024 • 5min
1247: A Garden and a Street by Teresa Cader
Today’s poem is A Garden and a Street by Teresa Cader. The Slowdown is your daily poetry ritual. In this episode, Major writes… “Poetry holds that place of both awakening and frustration, of perseverance against unimaginable violence and the flight away from the pains of our fragile world. Someday the bombs will stop falling. Someday the rhetoric of hatred will not have an audience. Isn’t this something that we all should work toward? Until then, so says the speaker in today’s poem, we must find a way to restore ourselves to a place of harmonious connection with and belief in all life.” Celebrate the power of poems with a gift to The Slowdown today. Every donation makes a difference: https://tinyurl.com/rjm4synp
Nov 25, 2024 • 6min
1246: Big Purple Peonies by Margaret Ross
Today’s poem is Big Purple Peonies by Margaret Ross. The Slowdown is your daily poetry ritual. In this episode, Major writes… “Today’s deeply satisfying poem arrives from an exacting eye. The poet’s kinetic imagination and mental roaming feel gorgeously reportorial and cinematic, mapping self-reflection through their portrayal of vibrant landscapes.” Celebrate the power of poems with a gift to The Slowdown today. Every donation makes a difference: https://tinyurl.com/rjm4synp
Nov 22, 2024 • 6min
1245: Telescope by Louise Glück
Explore the intricate relationship between personal experience and the landscapes we inhabit. The host reflects on their unique perspective from a hill overlooking a bustling valley, contemplating how technology alters our understanding of place. The reading of Louise Glück's poem 'Telescope' invites listeners to dive deeper into themes of perception and existence, blending the physical world with individual awareness.
