On this strange Wednesday, the first day of the federal government shutdown, host Ali Muldrow looks to poetry and two local poets for respite and guidance. We’re joined by Madison poet laureate Steven Espada Dawson and Madison youth poet laureate Octavia Ikard. They talk about the role of poetry in self expression and healing but also in response to political life.

Featured image: photo of Steven Espada Dawson, Octavia Ikard, and Ali Muldrow courtesy of Sara Gabler/WORT.