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
Nov 12, 2025 • 7min
1394: Puerto Rico Goes Dark by Juan J. Morales
In this thought-provoking discussion, the host highlights the significance of Puerto Rican citizenship amidst ongoing misinformation. A poignant reading of Juan J. Morales's poem reveals the deep scars left by Hurricane Maria and the resilience of the island's people. The reflections challenge listeners to consider shared national struggles, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all citizens. Prepare for a powerful blend of poetry and social commentary!
Nov 11, 2025 • 6min
1393: The Night Where You No Longer Live by Meghan O’Rourke
Explore the delicate balance between life and death as questions of mortality surface. Reflect on how children’s honest curiosity contrasts with adults’ hesitance to ask tough questions after a loss. Delve into a poignant poem addressing grief and remembrance, creating a space for the unanswerable. The heartfelt exploration of these themes invites listeners to embrace the complexity of love and loss.
Nov 10, 2025 • 6min
1392: Local Mission by Kai Carlson-Wee
Immerse yourself in the beauty of poetry with a captivating reading of a longer piece by Kai Carlson-Wee. The host encourages a fresh, unprejudiced listening experience, inviting you to discover the poem's richness without any preconceptions. The simplicity of this approach elevates the art form, celebrating its emotional depth. It's a perfect moment to pause, reflect, and appreciate the transformative power of words.
Nov 7, 2025 • 7min
1391: Never-ending Birds by David Baker
Maggie Smith dives into the intimate language of poetry, likening it to a secret form of communication. She introduces David Baker's poignant poem, inspired by a child's phrase, 'never-ending birds.' The imagery of flocks, particularly starlings, serves as a powerful reflection on family and memory. Through the evocative reading, listeners are invited to reconnect with the simplicity and depth that poetry can bring to our understanding of life.
Nov 6, 2025 • 6min
1390: The Poem Climbs the Scaffold and Tells You What It Sees by Natasha Oladokun
Today’s poem dives into the profound impact of naming and the hidden histories tied to places like Lynchburg. Once recognized, these violent legacies linger in our minds. The reading of Natasha Oladokun’s work reveals a unique perspective on these themes and their resonance in locations like Charlottesville. It’s a captivating exploration of how poetry can illuminate uncomfortable truths and reshape our understanding of the world.
Nov 5, 2025 • 6min
1389: Sehnsucht by Michael Dumanis
Today’s reflection dives into the profound concept of Sehnsucht, a word that encapsulates longing and yearning. Maggie shares the thrill of childhood birthdays, intertwining the joy of a six-year-old with the deep desires of a parent. The exploration of everyday magic through expansive desire offers a fresh lens on life. This poetic journey not only celebrates the richness of emotions but also invites listeners to appreciate the beauty in their daily experiences.
Nov 4, 2025 • 7min
1388: When I learn Catastrophically by Martha Silano
A captivating fusion of playfulness and seriousness shapes the discussion. Anagrams take center stage, transforming language into new possibilities while addressing the weight of terminal illness. The poignant poem by Martha Silano reflects on confronting life’s fragility through the lens of ALS, showcasing how words can reshape our understanding. This exploration highlights the power of poetry as a vehicle for reflection and transformation, reminding us that even in dire circumstances, language can create hope.
5 snips
Nov 3, 2025 • 5min
1387: Different Kinds of Sadness by Jenny Molberg
This podcast explores the nuances of sadness through the lens of friendship and support. Maggie shares her personal experiences of receiving help from friends during tough times, emphasizing how those connections can truly be lifesaving. The reading of Jenny Molberg's poem, Different Kinds of Sadness, delves into themes of memory and emotional healing. It's a heartfelt reminder of the importance of opening up and accepting kindness from others in our darkest moments.
Oct 31, 2025 • 7min
1386: Night of the Living, Night of the Dead by Kim Addonizio
In this thought-provoking discussion, a witty love for zombie movies sparks a reflection on how they depict death and fear. The exploration centers around Kim Addonizio's poem, which delves into the behavior of cinematic zombies, from shambling figures to their menacing persistence. The conversation offers insights into how poetry can provide solace and meaning, especially in tough times, all while celebrating the eerie charm of Halloween. Enjoy the blend of poetry and movie magic!
Oct 30, 2025 • 5min
1385: At Night by Stanley Plumly
Maggie Smith delves into the complexities of solitude, sharing her own experiences as a solo parent and artist. She reflects on the necessity and challenges of being alone, especially during lockdown. The discussion highlights Stanley Plumly's profound understanding of solitude in a poet's life. Listeners are treated to a reading of Plumly's poignant poem, At Night, which explores themes of darkness, memory, and maternal absence. This reflective journey invites an appreciation for the power and depth of poetry.
