Today’s poem is It Too Remains by Glyn Maxwell. The Slowdown is your daily poetry ritual. In this episode, Major writes… “Though spoken to a single person, today’s elegiac poem makes a universal claim about loss; our hearts, mind, and bodies and the memories within render permanent, even conjure, those we once loved on this side of life.” Celebrate the power of poems with a gift to The Slowdown today. Every donation makes a difference: https://tinyurl.com/rjm4synp

Today’s poem is When You Rise from the Dead I Drive You to the After Party by Melissa Studdard. The Slowdown is your daily poetry ritual. In this episode, Major writes… “I think my group chats are the best group chats. We hit each other up every day, give verbal daps, check-in on family, share progress videos of workouts. We pass on new drafts of poems with no pressure to give feedback (but, of course, we do). Or we simply say, “Good morning.” When birthdays roll around, we make sure each feels the love. On our phones, we are royalty.” Celebrate the power of poems with a gift to The Slowdown today. Every donation makes a difference: https://tinyurl.com/rjm4synp

Today's featured poem dives deep into the emotional impact of connection and communication. The speaker reflects on the strength and joy found in group chats that foster relationships and support. It highlights the beauty of sharing both mundane moments and creative pursuits among friends. Also explored is the delicate balance between wild imagination and structured creativity in poetry, culminating in a heartwarming tribute to motherhood and its influence.

Today’s poem is Third Week of Ramadan by Sahar Romani. The Slowdown is your daily poetry ritual. In this episode, Major writes… “Today’s poem banishes any doubt that this is all a precious journey. It is a poem that points to a holy rite practiced the world over whose aim is purification and renewal.” Celebrate the power of poems with a gift to The Slowdown today. Every donation makes a difference: https://tinyurl.com/rjm4synp

A candid discussion about fears takes place amid a meal, revealing deep emotions surrounding loneliness and connection. The poem reflects on the tension between joy and oblivion, encapsulating the speaker's struggle between happiness and despair. Rich imagery invites listeners to explore the complex relationship between love, loss, and the transient nature of life, prompting a contemplation on how fleeting moments shape our experiences. Ultimately, it highlights the crucial need for relationships in a chaotic world.

Imtiaz Dharker's poem 'If' inspires a deeper awareness of our shared humanity in these challenging times. The discussion highlights Nashville's rich music culture, revealing both the charm of Southern hospitality and the occasional rudeness found in community interactions. The need for kindness emerges powerfully, showcasing poetry as a remedy for societal decay and a tool to cultivate compassion. Through reflections and poetic insights, a call to appreciate the present moment resonates, urging listeners to embrace kindness.

Dive into a poignant exploration of nostalgia and identity. A reflection on college days reveals the beauty in black and white photography and treasured friendships. The speaker shares childhood memories captured through photos, highlighting the complexities of self-image shaped by maternal love. The journey from insecurity to confidence unfolds through the lens of growth, allowing a deeper look at the duality of motherhood and personal narratives. It's a heartfelt tribute to the past and the moments that define us.

This whimsical poem dives into the intriguing balance between what we love to share and what we prefer to keep close. It examines the unexpected consequences of a simple compliment and its effects on generosity. The discussion uncovers the cultural nuances of gift-giving and the pressures of sharing in creative circles. With a minimalist approach, it invites listeners to ponder their personal boundaries and the complexities of intimacy in relationships.

A vibrant discussion unfolds around the power of poetry in pop culture, highlighted by a virtual gathering of poets inspired by Taylor Swift. The connection between hip-hop and poetry is explored deeply, reflecting on how musicians shape literary narratives. A self-portrait poem takes center stage, delving into themes of laughter and trauma, revealing the profound human experience behind the art. Wit and insinuation emerge as essential elements, showcasing the dynamic relationship between these creative fields.

Today’s poem is To Be Longing by Elizabeth Willis. The Slowdown is your daily poetry ritual. In this episode, Major writes… "Today’s poem explores the situation of writing ourselves out of fixed meanings that confine us to labels, to disempowering social and political realities." Celebrate the power of poems with a gift to The Slowdown today. Every donation makes a difference: https://tinyurl.com/rjm4synp