How do we define and redefine ourselves as individuals? As a society? How do dialogue and correspondence move us toward real freedom and growth? In this episode of Backlit, poets Donnelle McGee and Synnika Lofton join me in generating ideas for exploring and revising ourselves and our world, inspired by their poetry collection, American Reverie.

Topics discussed:

• Inspiration from music and poetry
• Exploring and shaping identity through writing
• What’s next for American philosophy & culture
• Tips for writing and revision
• Correspondence as communication & art form
• Inspiration & growth through writing and conversation
• Literary practice & freedom

Links:

• Episode Webpage with Transcript
• Purchase books by Donnelle McGee, Synnika Lofton
• Author Website: Donnelle McGee, Synnika Lofton

The Industrial Age has come to a close, and we are now in the midst of the Information Age—or are we past it? In this episode of Backlit, poet Laura-Gray Street joins us in a brainstorming conversation inspired by her recent poetry collection, Just Labor. Weaving together gender, industrialization, ecology and work, Laura-Gray’s work sparks new insights as we approach literature and life as an opportunity for discovery.

Topics discussed:

• Writing as a journey of discovery
• Impact of AI & gender issues on work
• The silence of privilege
• Writing ecopoetry & addressing environmental justice
• Teaching writing & the case for small classes
• Humanity & the work of caring for one another
• Writing inspiration & weaving together ideas

Links:

• Episode Webpage with Transcript
• Purchase books by Laura-Gray Street
• Author Website: Laura-Gray Street