VOCARIUM READING SERIES: Forrest Gander & Brenda Hillman

TL;DR

Two authors explore the concepts of with-ness and lichen as metaphors for interconnectedness and the human experience in their poetry collections.

Transcript

CHRISTINA DAVIS: At this moment, 21 days and counting from the midterms, this long now of division and of rupture, of relentless intentional antagonism and increasingly policed borders, what Brenda calls "the brutal days," it gives me such necessary pleasure to welcome into our midst two authors and beneficent, though they will deny it, human being... Read More

Key Insights

• ❓ The titles of the poetry collections reflect the themes explored within the poems themselves.
• 😒 Both poets use lichen as a metaphor for interconnectedness and with-ness among people and the natural world.
• 🌍 The poems challenge readers to consider the meaning of existence and the importance of being present and connected in the world.
• 👨‍⚖️ The poetry collections explore themes of social justice, activism, and the interconnectedness of different entities and elements.
• 💦 The authors' works invite readers to reflect on their own experiences and the impact of their presence in the world.
• 🤞 The poems in both collections convey a sense of hope and encouragement, despite acknowledging the challenges and divisions in the world.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the significance of the titles "Be With" and "Extra Hidden Life, Among the Days"?

The title "Be With" in Forrest Gander's poetry collection explores the concept of being present and finding connection with others. "Extra Hidden Life, Among the Days" by Brenda Hillman delves into the idea of hidden life and the interconnectedness between various elements in the world.

Q: How do the authors use lichen as a metaphor in their poetry?

Lichen, in both poets' works, is used as a metaphor for interconnectedness and the symbiotic relationship between different entities. It represents the idea of with-ness among people and the natural world.

Q: How do the poems challenge conventional notions of existence?

The poems in both collections invite readers to question the meaning of existence and the importance of connections and with-ness. They urge readers to consider the impact of being present and connected in the world.

Q: Can you provide an example of a poem from the collections that explores the theme of interconnectedness?

In Brenda Hillman's poem "Chicago Black Friday protest near Apple," the poet reflects on the protest and the interconnectedness of different individuals and groups fighting for justice. She emphasizes the importance of unity and the shared experiences of humans.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The authors' poetry collections unsettle readers with their titles, which reflect the themes explored within the poems.

• "Be With" by Forrest Gander delves into the concept of being present and the various ways in which we can achieve this state.

• "Extra Hidden Life, Among the Days" by Brenda Hillman explores the idea of hidden life and the connections between disparate entities and elements.

• The authors' poems challenge readers to consider the meaning of existence and the importance of with-ness among people and the natural world.