Poetry Unbound: Episode 5 - Jericho Brown — Poems as Teachers

Host: Pádraig Ó Tuama
Release Date: May 16, 2024
Podcast: Poetry Unbound by On Being Studios

Introduction to Jericho Brown's "Hebrews 13"

In this compelling episode of Poetry Unbound, host Pádraig Ó Tuama delves into Jericho Brown's poignant poem, "Hebrews 13." Brown, a celebrated poet known for his exploration of identity, love, and resilience, offers a rich tapestry of emotions and insights through his succinct yet powerful verses.

Exploring Triangulation in Human Relationships

Pádraig begins by discussing the concept of triangulation within interpersonal conflicts. He explains how two individuals with significant differences might bond over a shared disdain, a phenomenon he describes as "triangulation" (00:02). This initial bonding can feel profound but may ultimately be unconstructive. Brown's poem, however, showcases a positive form of triangulation, where divergent perspectives are united through deeper love and mutual respect, fostering courage and a strengthened human connection.

Dissecting "Hebrews 13"

Title Significance:
The title "Hebrews 13" references the thirteenth chapter of the New Testament's Letter to the Hebrews, which emphasizes mutual love, hospitality, and empathy. Pádraig highlights how this biblical foundation underpins the poem's exploration of love and human connection (00:02).

Imagery and Symbolism:
Brown employs vivid similes to convey the emotional landscape of the poem. For instance, he writes:

• "My lover and my brother both knocked at my door like wind in an early winter."
  (00:02)

• "They drank with a speed that must have burned their tongues."
  (00:02)

These comparisons create a sensory experience that underscores the tension and unspoken emotions between the characters.

Themes of Shame and Human Need:
Pádraig interprets the unnamed land in the poem as a metaphor for shame—a universal emotion that is often difficult to articulate. The arrival of the lover and brother symbolizes the intrusion of care and support in times of vulnerability. Brown's portrayal suggests that in moments of need, love transcends differences, allowing disparate individuals to connect on a deeper level.

Literary Techniques and Their Impact

Use of Simile:
Jericho Brown's extensive use of similes serves to encapsulate the complexity of human emotions and relationships. Pádraig notes that each simile acts as a "vehicle to contain descriptions of an unexpected meeting," highlighting the multifaceted nature of the encounter (00:02).

Archetypal Characters:
The characters of the lover and the brother are portrayed as archetypes—representations of universal roles in human relationships. Their interaction reflects the broader human experience of seeking warmth and connection amidst personal turmoil.

Language and Body Language:
The poem emphasizes the power of unspoken communication. Pádraig observes that the characters' body language conveys a silent understanding and mutual support, illustrating how non-verbal cues can bridge gaps that words cannot.

Insights on Conflict Resolution and Human Connection

Pádraig introduces the concept of attractors from conflict resolution theory, explaining how people often simplify others into patterns that confirm their biases. He praises Brown's ability to challenge these patterns, illustrating the difficulty and cost of maintaining genuine connections beyond preconceived notions (00:02).

Cost of Love and Connection:
The poem does not present an idealized resolution but rather acknowledges the costs and challenges inherent in deep human connections. The characters' desperate attempts to find warmth, even in burning coffee, symbolize the sacrifices made to sustain meaningful relationships.

Conclusion: The Power of Shared Humanity

Jericho Brown's "Hebrews 13" serves as a testament to the enduring power of love and empathy in bridging differences. Pádraig Ó Tuama eloquently captures the essence of the poem, emphasizing that true connection requires vulnerability, courage, and a willingness to transcend superficial divides.

Notable Quotes from the Episode

• Pádraig Ó Tuama (00:02):
  "Triangulation can be really unhelpful, even if it can feel lovely at the start."

• Pádraig Ó Tuama (00:02):
  "Jericho Brown uses so many similes... Each vehicle, each simile, is not trying to be sufficient. It's just trying to say, well, it's a bit like this."

• Pádraig Ó Tuama (00:02):
  "This poem is not flimsy in its imagination of the cost of such love, nor is it flimsy in its imagination to say, just because people represent archetypes of difference, that they can never ever be near each other."

Final Thoughts

Poetry Unbound Episode 5 offers a profound exploration of Jericho Brown's "Hebrews 13," illuminating the intricate dance of love, shame, and human connection. Pádraig Ó Tuama's insightful analysis invites listeners to reflect on their own relationships and the unspoken bonds that sustain them.

For those eager to delve deeper into Brown's work and other transformative poems, consider subscribing to the Poetry Unbound Substack newsletter or exploring Pádraig Ó Tuama's book, Poetry Unbound: 50 Poems to Open Your World.

*Produced by On Being Studios, Poetry Unbound is dedicated to fostering justice, equity, and connection through the power of poetry.