Summary of [Encore] 168: "What Does It Say" by Tess Gallagher

Podcast Information

• Title: The Slowdown: Poetry & Reflection Daily
• Host/Author: American Public Media
• Episode: [Encore] 168: What Does It Say by Tess Gallagher
• Release Date: May 14, 2025

Introduction In this special encore episode of The Slowdown: Poetry & Reflection Daily, host Major Jackson revisits a memorable episode originally hosted by esteemed poet Tracy K. Smith. This archival selection offers listeners a poignant blend of personal narrative and poetic exploration, showcasing the enduring impact of Tess Gallagher’s work.

Host Introduction and Context [00:31] Major Jackson opens the episode by reflecting on the rich history of The Slowdown, highlighting Tracy K. Smith's significant contributions that have shaped the podcast’s identity. He warmly reintroduces listeners to a cherished episode from the vault, setting the stage for a deep dive into Tess Gallagher’s poem "What Does It Say."

Personal Anecdote Connecting to the Poem [01:01] Tracy K. Smith shares a heartfelt personal story that serves as a bridge to Tess Gallagher’s poem. She recounts her experiences with various types of footwear during her college years, emphasizing the sentimental value and durability of her black cowboy boots:

“By the time my sophomore year rolled around, nearly all of those shoes had been replaced by a pair of black cowboy boots... They were worn down at the heel and a coin-sized hole had been worn through each sole.” (01:30)

Smith elaborates on the craftsmanship of her shoe repairman in Brooklyn Heights, illustrating the deep connection between everyday objects and personal memories:

“He built the heels back up and polished them to a high shine, reviving them to their former glory.” (01:45)

This anecdote underscores themes of restoration and resilience, echoing the central motifs of Gallagher’s poem.

Recitation and Analysis of "What Does It Say" by Tess Gallagher [02:15] Tracy transitions to reciting Tess Gallagher’s "What Does It Say," weaving in her own reflections to enhance the listener’s understanding. The poem delves into the intricate relationship between humans and the objects they cherish, symbolizing broader themes of healing and continuity.

Notable Quotes and Insights

• On the Role of the Shoe Repairman:

  “He who mended suitcases and purse straps, who loved to chat but could turn taciturn.” (03:10)

  Smith interprets the repairman as a metaphor for the unsung heroes who sustain our daily lives through their quiet, dedicated work.

• On Repair and Hope:

  “In your imagination, toward repair, you gave hope and salvage to those without money for new shoes...” (04:20)

  This line emphasizes the transformative power of repair, not just on physical objects but on the spirit and hope of individuals.

• Philosophical Reflection:

  “What, after all, is a world that walks around only in new shoes, that stops asking for a guy like you...” (05:00)

  Smith uses this imagery to provoke thought about consumerism and the loss of meaningful connections in a world focused solely on the new and disposable.

Concluding Thoughts [05:50] As the poem concludes, Tracy K. Smith ties the narrative back to her personal experiences, highlighting the universal desire for restoration and the human need to preserve what is meaningful. She eloquently captures the essence of Gallagher’s work, inviting listeners to reflect on their own relationships with the items and memories they hold dear.

Final Reflections [05:56] The episode wraps up with a brief nod to the enduring legacy of The Slowdown, reminding listeners of the podcast’s commitment to featuring both emerging and established poets who inspire and resonate across generations.

Conclusion This encore episode of The Slowdown masterfully intertwines personal storytelling with poetic analysis, offering a rich and engaging experience. Tracy K. Smith’s insightful interpretation of Tess Gallagher’s "What Does It Say" provides listeners with a deeper appreciation of the poem’s exploration of repair, memory, and the human condition.

Notable Timestamps:

• [00:31] – Major Jackson introduces the episode and its significance.
• [01:01] – Tracy K. Smith begins her personal anecdote about shoes.
• [03:10] – Insightful quote on the role of the shoe repairman.
• [04:20] – Reflection on repair and hope.
• [05:00] – Philosophical musings on consumerism and meaningful connections.

Attributions:

• Major Jackson: Host providing context and introductions.
• Tracy K. Smith: Original host delivering personal narrative and poem analysis.
• Tess Gallagher: Poet whose work "What Does It Say" is featured and analyzed.

Note: Advertisements and non-content sections have been omitted to focus solely on the core material of the episode.