Podcast Summary: [Encore] 768: Lately I Am Trying by Sanna Wani

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Slowdown: Poetry & Reflection Daily
• Host/Author: American Public Media
• Episode: [Encore] 768: Lately I Am Trying by Sanna Wani
• Release Date: August 14, 2025

Introduction

In this encore episode of The Slowdown: Poetry & Reflection Daily, host Maggie Smith revisits a poignant piece from Ada Limone’s tenure. Released on August 14, 2025, this episode features the heartfelt poem "Lately I Am Trying" by Sanna Wani. Maggie introduces the episode as a reflection on human resilience amidst grief and loss, setting the stage for a deep exploration of the poem’s themes.

Recitation of the Poem

Ada Limone delivers a moving recitation of Sanna Wani's "Lately I Am Trying," capturing the essence of grappling with grief and finding solace in the small, everyday moments that anchor us.

• Grief and Human Resilience: Ada begins by acknowledging the difficulty in maintaining faith in humanity during tough times. She reflects, "Humanity, ugh, who needs it? And yet, amazingly, people can overcome loss or grief or great tragedy and just keep living" ([00:45]).

• Sources of Comfort: The poem highlights the importance of simple joys and connections that help individuals cope with loss. Ada shares, "I want to praise those little things that allow us to continue. The garden, the birds at the feeder, the friend who texts out of the blue to see if you're doing okay" ([02:10]).

• The Bond with Her Dog: A significant portion of the poem is dedicated to Ada’s relationship with her dog, symbolizing unconditional love and a path to healing. "My dog is one of those bright spots in my life, a reason to wake up or be kind to myself or walk or nap or laugh" ([03:15]). This bond serves as a mirror for Ada to reconnect with her own emotions and the surrounding world.

• Confronting Loss: Ada delves into personal tragedy, recounting the passing of loved ones and the emotional turmoil that ensues. "The week after my grandmother died, I attended class. They were talking about what killed her. Like it was an inconvenience, like it wasn't a monster haunting my bed" ([04:50]). This line underscores the struggle to find meaning in loss amidst mundane continuities.

• Legacy and Memory: The poet reflects on the lasting impact of those lost, emphasizing the importance of remembering and honoring their lives. "I cradled her head in my hand and said 24 years ago I was your baby and now you, you're mine" ([06:20]). This poignant moment captures the shift in roles and the enduring bond between generations.

Analysis and Insights

Ada Limone’s recitation of Sanna Wani's poem offers a profound exploration of grief, resilience, and the healing power of companionship. The following insights emerge from the episode:

1. The Duality of Grief and Hope: The poem masterfully balances the weight of loss with the glimmers of hope found in daily interactions and relationships, particularly through the metaphor of the dog.

2. The Significance of Small Joys: By highlighting everyday moments—like watching birds or receiving a friend's message—the poem emphasizes that healing often comes from the simplest sources.

3. Unconditional Love as a Healing Force: The relationship with Ada’s dog symbolizes a pure, non-judgmental love that provides comfort and a sense of purpose during times of sorrow.

4. Confronting the Inevitability of Death: The honest confrontation with mortality and loss serves as a catalyst for personal growth and a deeper appreciation of life’s fleeting moments.

Notable Quotes:

• "Humanity, ugh, who needs it? And yet, amazingly, people can overcome loss or grief or great tragedy and just keep living." – Ada Limone ([00:45])

• "My dog is one of those bright spots in my life, a reason to wake up or be kind to myself or walk or nap or laugh." – Ada Limone ([03:15])

• "The week after my grandmother died, I attended class. They were talking about what killed her. Like it was an inconvenience, like it wasn't a monster haunting my bed." – Ada Limone ([04:50])

• "I cradled her head in my hand and said 24 years ago I was your baby and now you, you're mine." – Ada Limone ([06:20])

Conclusion

This encore episode of The Slowdown effectively captures the essence of Sanna Wani's "Lately I Am Trying" through Ada Limone’s heartfelt narration. The poem serves as a testament to human resilience, the healing power of love, and the small yet significant moments that help us navigate through grief. Maggie Smith's introduction and the thoughtful selection of this poem create a space for listeners to reflect on their own experiences with loss and find hope in the enduring bonds that sustain us.

The Slowdown is produced by American Public Media in partnership with the Poetry Foundation. For more daily poetic reflections, visit slowdownshow.org and join the community on Instagram.