The Slowdown: Poetry & Reflection Daily

Episode: [encore] 311: Listen by Barbara Crooker
Release Date: June 2, 2025
Host: Major Jackson (Featuring Former Host Tracy K. Smith)
Producer: American Public Media in partnership with The Poetry Foundation

Introduction to the Episode

In this special encore episode of The Slowdown: Poetry & Reflection Daily, host Major Jackson takes listeners on a nostalgic journey through the podcast's archives. Specifically, he revisits a poignant episode from former host Tracy K. Smith, highlighting the enduring impact of past voices on the show's legacy.

Revisiting the Archives with Tracy K. Smith

At [01:05], Major Jackson introduces the concept of delving into the podcast's "deep well of episodes," emphasizing the significance of former hosts in shaping the essence of The Slowdown. He expresses excitement about reintroducing listeners to memorable moments from Tracy K. Smith, underscoring the episode's value as a "special selection from our archives."

Key Quote:

"Today, we're going into the Vault to bring you an episode from Tracy K. Smith, one of the voices that helped shape the Slowdown into what it is today." — Major Jackson ([01:05])

Tracy K. Smith's Reflection and Introduction of "Listen"

Beginning at [01:34], Tracy K. Smith shares a deeply personal reflection set against the backdrop of a rainy night. Her vivid imagery captures the relentless rhythm of rain, symbolizing both chaos and serenity. Smith contemplates themes of worry, gratitude, and the human desire to find peace amidst turmoil.

She narrates:

"Rain hammers down onto my roof as I write. It's one of my favorite sounds… How can there be so many raindrops? How have they not been exhausted?" ([01:34])

Smith transitions into discussing Barbara Crooker's poem "Listen," highlighting its message of calm and gratitude. She poses reflective questions about living with constant gratitude and the effort required to maintain such a state of being.

Notable Quotes:

"When I feel the urge to cower, I want instead to choose, to rejoice." — Tracy K. Smith ([03:15])

"Today's poem is Listen by Barbara Croker. Its message of calm and gratitude is one I want to learn to offer myself, especially on days when peace feels far away." — Tracy K. Smith ([04:10])

Reading of "Listen" by Barbara Crooker

Tracy K. Smith then gracefully introduces and reads Barbara Crooker's "Listen," a poem that encapsulates the essence of finding joy and gratitude in everyday moments. The poem employs rich natural imagery to evoke sensory experiences and emotional resonance.

Excerpt from the Poem:

"The cardinal's red song dances in your blood. Look, every month the moon blossoms into a peony, then shrinks to a sliver of garlic, and then it blooms again." — Barbara Crooker ([04:45])

Themes Explored:

• Gratitude: Emphasizing appreciation for the simple gifts of the world.
• Nature's Harmony: Using elements like rain, flowers, and animals to symbolize peace and continuity.
• Human Emotion: Balancing feelings of worry with the intentional choice to embrace joy.

Insights and Reflections

Throughout the episode, both hosts delve into the transformative power of poetry as a tool for reflection and emotional grounding. Tracy K. Smith's introduction serves as a bridge between personal introspection and the universal themes presented in Crooker's work.

Key Insights:

• The Therapeutic Role of Poetry: Poetry as a means to pause, reflect, and acknowledge life's complexities.
• Mindfulness and Presence: Encouraging listeners to "Listen" to their surroundings and inner selves to foster a sense of peace.
• Resilience Through Art: Highlighting how engaging with poetry can aid in overcoming feelings of fear and uncertainty.

Closing Reflections by Tracy K. Smith:

"I want to tell you something... Your life is a blue coal, a slice of orange in the mouth, cut hay in the nostrils." ([05:50])

This metaphor underscores the multifaceted nature of existence, suggesting that life's beauty lies in its diverse and vibrant experiences.

Conclusion

This encore episode of The Slowdown serves as a heartfelt homage to the podcast's rich history and the enduring power of poetry. By revisiting Tracy K. Smith's evocative introduction and Barbara Crooker's "Listen," listeners are reminded of the importance of gratitude, mindfulness, and the continual pursuit of peace amidst life's storms.

Final Quote:

"We were made for song." — Barbara Crooker ([05:30])

This closing thought encapsulates the episode's central message: embracing our inherent capacity for joy and expression through the artistry of poetry.

For more daily poetic reflections, visit slowdownshow.org and subscribe to receive your daily poem and moment of calm.