Episode Summary: The Slowdown: Poetry & Reflection Daily

Episode Title: If We Had Known
Poet: Marissa Davis
Release Date: March 17, 2025
Host: Major Jackson

Introduction

In Episode 1314 of The Slowdown: Poetry & Reflection Daily, host Major Jackson presents "If We Had Known," a compelling poem by Marissa Davis. This episode, produced in partnership with The Poetry Foundation and supported by the National Endowment for the Arts, offers listeners a deep dive into the interplay between nature’s unpredictability and human resilience.

Poem Reading: "If We Had Known" by Marissa Davis

Major Jackson begins the episode by setting a serene yet introspective mood, describing the profound silence brought about by a snowstorm in Nashville:

"A good snowstorm hushes the land. A good snowstorm mutes the noise of people, cars and even airplanes. A good snowstorm makes room for birdsong and the noises of forest creatures in Vermont."
(00:31)

Davis's poem delves into themes of foresight, community, and the delicate balance between human activity and natural forces. Through vivid imagery and metaphorical language, the poem reflects on what could have been done differently to prevent disaster:

"If we in the town had been called out our doors by some autumn prophet, she would have warned us come years break, watch for crystal, watch for stars to spatter in the distance, for sky to recover such immaculate black it will make you clean as birth."
(02:15)

The narrative weaves biblical and folk motifs, suggesting that natural events serve as divine messages guiding human behavior. Davis contemplates the consequences of ignoring these signs, emphasizing the fragility of human settlements amidst the vastness of nature:

"If only the ancients or the birds they have gone oddly still, hardly breathing in those branches, clean as the bones on a glutton's plate."
(01:05)

Reflections and Insights

After the poem, Major Jackson offers reflective commentary, exploring the poem's underlying messages and its relevance to contemporary issues. He highlights Davis's exploration of warning signs and collective responsibility:

"Davis masterfully captures the tension between knowledge and action, reminding us that foresight alone isn't enough without the will to act upon it."
(04:20)

Jackson draws parallels between the poem's depiction of environmental calamity and real-world challenges such as climate change and community preparedness. He underscores the importance of listening to nature's cues and respecting its power:

"The poem serves as a poignant reminder that our disconnect from the natural world can lead to unforeseen consequences. It's a call to re-establish that vital connection."
(05:45)

Concluding Thoughts

In wrapping up, Major Jackson emphasizes the therapeutic and enlightening aspects of engaging with poetry. He invites listeners to contemplate their own relationship with nature and the subtle messages it conveys:

"Through poetry, we pause and reflect, gaining insights that might otherwise elude us in the hustle of daily life. Davis's work is a testament to the enduring power of verse to inspire change and introspection."
(06:30)

Jackson encourages the audience to incorporate The Slowdown into their daily routines, whether during morning coffee, a nature walk, or evening unwinding, to cultivate moments of calm and reflection.

Additional Resources

Listeners are invited to explore more episodes featuring previous hosts Tracy K. Smith and Ada Limón, as well as guest hosts like Jenny Xie and Amanda Gorman. To receive daily poems, subscribe to the newsletter at slowdownshow.org and follow on Instagram @downdownshow.

This episode of The Slowdown not only showcases Marissa Davis's evocative poetry but also fosters a deeper understanding of our intricate relationship with the natural world, urging us to listen and respond with wisdom and care.