The Slowdown: Poetry & Reflection Daily

American Public Media
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Dec 23, 2024 • 5min

[encore] 1163: Voice Clear As by Kemi Alabi

Explore a fresh take on the concept of heaven, as the discussion shifts from traditional depictions to more inclusive visions. Delve into how these personal aspirations can inspire meaningful change in today's world. The conversation intertwines poetry with themes of environmentalism, love, and self-expression, inviting listeners to reimagine paradise in a more realistic and actionable way. Discover how art and reflection can reshape our understanding of ascension.
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Dec 20, 2024 • 5min

1265: Gorgon Loves Googie's by Rebecca Morgan Frank

Dive into the captivating world of poetry that connects ancient myths with modern longing. Explore a family's journey to New Grange, reflecting on the awe of historical sites. Discover how the symbolism of the winter solstice intertwines with themes of desire and fulfillment. This rich tapestry of past and future inspires us to renew our understanding of timeless tales. Poetry becomes a powerful lens for appreciating both the unfulfilled and the aspirations of our lives.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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!
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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.

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