Today’s poem is Occasional Poem by Jaqueline Woodson. This week’s episodes are for, and feature, young poets.

Today’s co-host, Jasper, and I share an entry point to poetry – music. In the songs he’s written, he seeks an honesty and perspective in relationships, which reflects so many great poems. Sometimes, the best way to make sense of something is to bring sound to it – whether the spoken word, a guitar strum, or an onomatopoeia.

We would love to hear your thoughts on these special episodes for young people. Please go to slowdownshow.org/survey to tell us what you think!