Episode Summary: [encore] 386: Someday I'll Love Ocean Vuong by Ocean Vuong

Podcast Title: The Slowdown: Poetry & Reflection Daily
Host/Author: American Public Media
Episode: [encore] 386: Someday I'll Love Ocean Vuong by Ocean Vuong
Release Date: May 13, 2025

Introduction

In this archive episode of The Slowdown: Poetry & Reflection Daily, originally hosted by Tracy K. Smith, listeners are invited to explore profound themes of self-care and resilience through poetry. The episode features a heartfelt discussion by Tracy K. Smith on navigating the stresses of contemporary life, particularly from the perspective of a person of color, and culminates with a powerful poem by Ocean Vuong titled "Someday I'll Love Ocean Vuong."

Exploring Self-Care and Resilience

Timestamp [01:19] | Tracy K. Smith:
Tracy delves into the pervasive question of self-care, reflecting on its deeper implications beyond surface-level practices. She shares her initial confusion when asked about self-care, realizing the question's profound roots in surviving a polarized and often hostile world.

"How do I recover from the stress of living in the world as a person of color?" she recounts being asked, highlighting the intersection of personal well-being and societal challenges.

Timestamp [02:15] | Tracy K. Smith:
Drawing inspiration from Audre Lorde, Tracy emphasizes the transformative power of anger when harnessed constructively. She articulates:

"Every woman has a well-stocked arsenal of anger, potentially useful against those oppressions, personal and institutional, which brought that anger into being."

Tracy underscores the importance of community and love as pillars that sustain hope and purpose amidst adversity. She shares her personal strategies for self-care, which include kindness to oneself, nurturing relationships, and finding joy in the presence of loved ones.

Ocean Vuong's Poetic Reflection

Timestamp [03:44] | Ocean Vuong:
The episode transitions to Ocean Vuong's evocative poem, "Someday I'll Love Ocean Vuong." This piece serves as a meditation on self-acceptance, familial bonds, and the enduring presence of memory and love.

Key excerpts include:

• "Ocean, don't be afraid. The end of the road is so far ahead. It is already behind us."
• "The most beautiful part of your body is wherever your mother's shadow falls."
• "Don't worry. Just call it Horizon and you'll never reach it."
• "Loneliness is still time spent with the world."

Through these lines, Vuong navigates the complexities of identity, the longing for connection, and the bittersweet nature of memory. The poem invites listeners to embrace vulnerability and find solace in the continuity of life and relationships.

Concluding Reflections

Timestamp [05:56] | Tracy K. Smith:
Tracy wraps up the episode by reiterating the collaborative nature of The Slowdown, produced by American Public Media in partnership with the Poetry Foundation and supported by the National Endowment for the Arts. She leaves listeners with a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of poetry as a tool for reflection and understanding.

Final Thoughts

This archive episode of The Slowdown offers a rich tapestry of introspection and artistic expression. Through Tracy K. Smith's insightful commentary and Ocean Vuong's moving poetry, listeners are encouraged to contemplate their own journeys of self-care and connection. The episode serves as a testament to the power of poetry in fostering empathy, resilience, and a deeper appreciation for the shared human experience.

Notable Quotes

• "Every woman has a well stocked arsenal of anger, potentially useful against those oppressions, personal and institutional, which brought that anger into being." – Tracy K. Smith [02:15]

• "The most beautiful part of your body is wherever your mother's shadow falls." – Ocean Vuong [04:10]

• "Loneliness is still time spent with the world." – Ocean Vuong [05:00]

Recommended For

This episode is ideal for listeners seeking thoughtful exploration of personal well-being, the nuances of self-care in challenging times, and the healing power of poetry. Whether you're a longtime fan of The Slowdown or new to the series, this episode offers valuable insights and emotional depth.

Produced by: APM Studios in partnership with The Poetry Foundation
Supported by: National Endowment for the Arts
Listen to More: Explore episodes by previous hosts Tracy K. Smith and Ada Limón, as well as guest hosts Jenny Xie, Brenda Shaughnessy, Tina Chang, and others on The Slowdown website.