"Writing an ode is a form of meditation and gratitude practice. It's also a method for repairing our relationship with something, someone, someplace, to write in it's praise." ~ Elizabeth Austen

Former Washington State Poet Laureate Elizabeth Austen believes poetry is part of our human birthright. Among the many things poetry can do, she’s most invested in its capacity to confront big questions with intelligence and feeling. Through its intimacy, slowness, and layered silences, poetry can offer moments of stillness and connection in a frantic, clamorous world.

She’s the author of Every Dress a Decision (Blue Begonia Press), which was a finalist for the Washington State Book Award, two chapbooks, and an audio CD. Poems from her next collection-in-progress appeared recently in the New England Review and Spirited Stone: Lessons from Kubota’s Garden. She’s performed her work widely, including at UNESCO in Paris alongside poets from 12 nations and at Poets House in NYC. 

For over a decade, she’s facilitated poetry and reflective writing as a tool for self-care at Seattle Children’s Hospital. She’s worked with organizations including Neighborcare and Virginia Mason, using poetry to help clinicians renew their connection to the heart of care, and has lectured on poetry/reflective writing as a tool for resilience at the University of Washington School of Social Work, Kaiser Permanente, and the WCAAP.

To learn more about Holden Village, visit: http://www.holdenvillage.org or to listen to more audio recordings visit: http://audio.holdenvillage.org. The Holden Village Podcast is accessible through Apple iTunes, Spotify, TuneIn, iHeart Radio, and most podcast apps. For questions and inquiries, contact [email protected].