1324: Why I Write Poetry by Major Jackson - The Slowdown: Poetry & Reflection Daily

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Slowdown Episode 1324: "Why I Write Poetry" by Major Jackson

Introduction

Episode 1324 of The Slowdown: Poetry & Reflection Daily, hosted by Major Jackson, marks a significant milestone as Jackson announces his departure from the show. Released on April 2, 2025, this episode serves both as a farewell and a reflection on the journey shared with listeners since the podcast's inception in 2018.

Host's Farewell Address

At [01:05], Major Jackson addresses the listeners with heartfelt gratitude:

"Since 2018, The Slowdown has been a part of your daily ritual and listening routine."

He expresses pride in the podcast's role as a consistent space for reflection amidst a rapidly changing world. Jackson acknowledges the team behind the scenes, including producers, editors, and interns, highlighting their collective effort in fostering a community centered around poetry and compassion.

"They work hard to bring light to our world."

Impact of The Slowdown

Jackson reflects on the podcast's mission to cultivate appreciation for humanity's richness through diverse poetic voices. He emphasizes the importance of poetry in fostering resilience and emotional fortitude among listeners.

"Whenever a poem or reflection moved you through poetry, we flex a spiritual muscle that bolsters our resilience and fortitude."

This sentiment underscores the podcast's role in providing comfort and inspiration, acting as a daily sanctuary for its audience.

Gratitude and Acknowledgments

In his farewell, Jackson extends thanks to specific individuals who have significantly contributed to the podcast's success:

"I want to especially shout out Micah Kilbon, Maria Wartel, James Napoli, and our many interns..."

He also credits his colleagues, Chandra Kavati and Joanne Griffith, for the opportunity to steward poetry into listeners' lives.

Reflection on Poetry's Role

Jackson shares his personal connection to poetry, likening his role to a friend bringing "an armful of gifts." He appreciates how poetry allows individuals to adjust to one another and make space for diverse perspectives.

"I love how poetry has us adjust to each other, how we make room inside ourselves for the words of our neighbors near and far."

Looking Forward

While announcing his departure, Jackson assures listeners that The Slowdown will continue by sharing archived episodes until a new host is introduced. He expresses optimism for the future and excitement for upcoming developments.

"You'll hear more exciting news ahead."

The Poem: "Why I Write Poetry"

Following his farewell, the episode features Major Jackson's original poem, "Why I Write Poetry," delivered by a poet or narrator at [04:06]. The poem is a tapestry of personal reflections and universal experiences, illustrating Jackson's motivations and inspirations for writing poetry.

Themes and Insights:

Personal Connection: Jackson intertwines personal memories and emotions, such as [04:21] "Because my son is as old as the stars," highlighting the deep-seated motivations behind his poetic endeavors.
Everyday Moments: The poem captures mundane yet poignant moments, like [04:55] "Because soup reminds me of the warmth," showcasing how daily experiences fuel his creativity.
Cultural and Familial Influences: References to family members and cultural elements demonstrate the significant impact of heritage and upbringing on his work.
Language and Expression: Jackson explores the nuances of language, reflecting on its role in shaping thoughts and connecting with others.

The poem serves as a culmination of Jackson's philosophy on poetry—as a means of understanding, expressing, and connecting with the world.

Conclusion

Episode 1324 of The Slowdown is both a poignant farewell and a celebration of the podcast's enduring legacy. Major Jackson's heartfelt message, combined with his reflective poem, offers listeners a moment of introspection and appreciation for the shared journey through poetry. As Jackson steps down, the foundation he helped build continues to inspire and resonate, ensuring that The Slowdown remains a cherished daily ritual for poetry enthusiasts.

Notable Quotes:

Major Jackson at [01:05]: "Since 2018, The Slowdown has been a part of your daily ritual and listening routine."
Major Jackson at [02:50]: "We will continue to cultivate a deep appreciation for the richness of our humanity."
Major Jackson at [05:14]: "Because words can bend time and space, weaving our individual stories into a collective tapestry."

Additional Information:

Listeners are encouraged to explore The Slowdown's extensive back catalog featuring previous hosts Tracy K. Smith and Ada Limón, as well as guest hosts like Jenny Xie and Amanda Gorman. The podcast remains a collaborative effort between APM Studios and The Poetry Foundation, supported by the National Endowment for the Arts.

For more information or to subscribe, visit slowdownshow.org or follow The Slowdown on Instagram at slowdownshow.

Transcript

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Major Jackson (1:05)

I'm Major Jackson and this is the Slowdown. Dear Listener, with great honor and pride, I am announcing that my last episode as host was will release on April 11, 2025. Since 2018, the slowdown has been a part of your daily ritual and listening routine. We will be back with a new host very soon. Until then, the Slowdown team will share episodes from the archive going back to the very beginning. From its initial launch, the Slowdown has remained a consistent space to reflect, to remain present even as the world rapidly changed around us. Now, more than ever, the Slowdown will continue to be an instrument of compassion. We will continue to cultivate a deep appreciation for the richness of our humanity, for the many voices and perspectives that enliven and give shape to our communities. Each week I felt like the friend who walked into your home with an armful of gifts. I love how poetry has us adjust to each other, how we make room inside ourselves for the words of our neighbors near and far. I want to thank you for listening to my meditations and my stories, and even more for writing us at the Slowdown. Whenever a poem or reflection moved you through poetry, we flex a spiritual muscle that bolsters our resilience and fortitude. I want to thank those poets whose gifts and passion for language is nothing less than inspiring and uplifting. I have tremendous hope for our future, as do the brilliant team of producers and editors and executives of the Slowdown. They work hard to bring light to our world. I want to especially shout out Dear Micah Kilbon, Maria Wartel, James Napoli, and our many interns serving as host of the Slowdown and your colleague ranks among the greatest honors of my life as a poet and citizen of our beloved community and to Chandra Kavati and Joanne Griffith, thank you enormously for the opportunity to steward poetry each morning into the lives of many. I am signing off, but you'll hear more exciting news ahead. For now I will be off to make soup and to take long bike rides.