Podcast Summary: The Slowdown: Poetry & Reflection Daily
Episode 1254: "That's My Heart Right There" by Willie Perdomo
Release Date: December 5, 2024

I. Introduction and Personal Reflections

Host: Major Jackson
Timestamp: [00:05]

Major Jackson opens the episode by sharing a heartfelt portrayal of his grandfather, a man deeply connected to the blues. He describes his grandfather's soulful singing of "bluesy songs about bad luck and trouble, songs about helpless love and beautiful women," projecting his emotions as if performing in a grand concert hall, even when singing alone. This vivid imagery sets the tone for the episode, highlighting the profound impact of music and poetry on personal and emotional landscapes.

Notable Quote:
"[00:05] My grandfather was one of those grandfathers that sang in the house full throated bluesy songs about bad luck and trouble, songs about helpless love and beautiful women."

II. The B.B. King Anecdote

Timestamp: [00:05]

Jackson recounts a pivotal moment from his youth when his grandfather took him to see B.B. King perform. He shares the story B.B. King told about a fiery incident in Twist, Arkansas, where King risked his life to save his beloved Gibson guitar, naming it Lucille after the woman involved in a fight that nearly caused a fire. This story serves as a metaphor for the deep emotional connections artists form with their craft and the lengths they go to protect what they love.

Notable Quote:
"[00:05] King told the story of playing a small nightclub in Twist, Arkansas... He ran into the flames to retrieve his Gibson guitar. He named it Lucille... to never risk his life again."

III. Understanding Love and Emotion

Timestamp: [00:05]

Jackson delves into his personal awakening to the complexities of love and emotional vulnerability. Reflecting on a poignant memory of witnessing his crush holding hands with his best friend, he realizes the profound pain and longing that love can bring. This moment of clarity leads him to appreciate the depth of emotions his grandfather's songs conveyed, emphasizing that despite the potential for hurt, the human desire for companionship and affection drives passionate and sometimes irrational behavior.

Notable Quote:
"[00:05] We are creatures with wild hearts. We hurt to the core when done wrong... little satiates our appetite for companionship and affection."

IV. Introduction of the Poem

Timestamp: [00:05]

Transitioning from his reflections, Jackson introduces the featured poem of the day, "That's My Heart Right There" by Willie Perdomo. He provides context for the poem's themes, explaining how the phrase "that's my heart right there" encapsulates a fierce sense of ownership and protection over one's emotions and loved ones. This introduction sets the stage for the listeners to engage deeply with the poem's exploration of love and identity.

Notable Quote:
"[00:05] ... that's my heart right there as if to say, don't mess with her right there... that's the start of me right there... I would fend for her right there."

V. Reading of the Poem

Timestamp: [00:05]

Major Jackson proceeds to read Willie Perdomo's "That's My Heart Right There," allowing the poem's vivid language and emotional intensity to resonate with the audience. The poem articulates the intense devotion and protective instincts that come with loving someone, portraying love as an integral part of one's identity.

Excerpt from the Poem:
"That's my heart right there as if to say,
don't mess with her right there
as if don't even play
that's a part of me right there.
...
I would die for that right there."

VI. Conclusion

The episode wraps up with a brief mention of The Slowdown's affiliations and support, emphasizing its commitment to delivering daily poetic reflections. Major Jackson encourages listeners to engage with the podcast through various platforms and to consider supporting poets and the arts through subscriptions and gift bundles.

Final Notes:

• Production: APM Studios in partnership with The Poetry Foundation.
• Support: National Endowment for the Arts.
• Engagement: Listeners are invited to subscribe to the newsletter, follow on Instagram, and explore the back catalog featuring previous hosts and guest poets.

This episode masterfully intertwines personal narrative with poetic expression, offering listeners both emotional depth and literary beauty. Major Jackson's reflections provide a rich backdrop for Willie Perdomo's evocative poem, making it an insightful addition to The Slowdown's daily ritual of poetry and reflection.