Summary of "The Slowdown: Poetry & Reflection Daily" Episode 760: "Song by Charif Shanahan"

Release Date: May 22, 2025
Host: Major Jackson
Featuring: Ada Limón (Archival Host)

Introduction to the Archival Segment (1:30 - 1:56)

In this special episode, Major Jackson introduces a beloved archival segment featuring Ada Limón, one of the former hosts of "The Slowdown." Jackson reminisces about Limón's impactful tenure, highlighting her "thoughtfulness and deep love of poetry," and sets the tone for an intimate and reflective episode.

"Here's one from Ada Limone's tenure as host. Her thoughtfulness and deep love of poetry made her time on the show very special. I hope you enjoy this selection from the archives." ([01:30])

Ada Limón Explores the Concept of Voice in Poetry (1:57 - 5:58)

Ada Limón delves deep into the often-discussed yet elusive concept of a poet's "voice." She reflects on her personal journey to understand what it means to "find her voice," a theme frequently addressed in graduate programs and craft seminars. Limón offers a nuanced perspective, describing the voice of a poem as something both inherent and transcendent.

"For me, the voice of a poem is the voice underneath whatever the speaker is saying. The place that is both the writer and not the writer." ([02:20])

Limón shares a profound personal anecdote about a moment of intense writing where she realized that the voice guiding her was fundamentally her own, yet felt as if it belonged to someone else. This revelation underscores the duality and depth of poetic creation.

"It was then that I realized the voice I had been hearing, the thing that I could swear, was so loud ... was my own." ([04:35])

She emphasizes that poetry is an act of profound listening—not just to the external world, but to one's inner self. This immersive process allows poets to channel their emotions and thoughts authentically onto the page.

"I am not just speaking to the world, I am listening to it." ([03:10])

Presentation and Recitation of "Song" by Sharif Shanahan (5:00 - 5:58)

Following her insightful discussion, Ada introduces the featured poem of the episode, "Song" by Sharif Shanahan. The poem navigates themes of self-identity, existence, and the myriad possibilities that define one's being. Through evocative imagery and introspective questions, Shanahan invites listeners to contemplate the layers of the self and the journey of self-discovery.

"Song by Sharif Shanahan: I wait each night for a self. I say the mist, I say the strange tumble of leaves. I say a motor in the distance..." ([05:00])

The poem reflects on the elusive nature of self, the regrets and dreams that shape us, and the cosmic connections that bind our existence.

Closing Remarks and Production Notes (5:58 - 6:30)

Major Jackson concludes the episode by acknowledging the collaborative efforts behind "The Slowdown." He mentions the partnerships with the Poetry Foundation and support from the National Endowment for the Arts, encouraging listeners to engage further with the show.

"The Slowdown is a production of American Public Media in partnership with the Poetry Foundation. This project is also supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts." ([05:58])

Call to Support Public Media (6:30 - End)

In a heartfelt appeal, Micah, the lead producer, addresses listeners about the importance of supporting public media. Highlighting the threats of federal budget cuts, Micah emphasizes that "The Slowdown" is an integral part of the public media ecosystem and urges listeners to take action to preserve such invaluable content.

"If you want to protect your favorite public media podcasts like this one, visit americanpublicmedia.org/action to learn how you can help." ([06:30])

This episode of "The Slowdown: Poetry & Reflection Daily" offers a deep dive into the essence of poetic voice through Ada Limón's reflective narrative, enriched by Sharif Shanahan's poignant poem "Song." It serves as both a nostalgic homage to past hosts and a reaffirmation of the show's commitment to exploring the profound depths of poetry and self-reflection.