This week, I turn the newsletter over to you, listeners. Thank you for the reactions to our recent shows, especially “Poetry in A Troubled Time” and “Doctors Give Us Hope.” Keep those comments, criticisms and ideas coming. You’re part of the TTBOOK family and we couldn’t do it without you.
I discovered my dream #podcast -- 'To the Best Of Our Knowledge' (@TTBOOK from @WPR) Each show is full of thoughtful curiosity on a theme (e.g. hope, doctors, poetry, war, food). Deep, eclectic input blends to give beauty and new perspectives. Thank you @Strainchamps & co.
–Elizabeth Wainright, via Twitter
You brought me to tears with your opening thank yous to health care providers. I’m a pulmonologist and grateful for your support. #doctorgiveushope #COVID19 #AllInThisTogether
–Karen Miller, via Twitter
I very much enjoyed your recent show “Poetry in a Troubled Time.” It encouraged me to call my sister, Nancy Krygowski, a poet and teacher in
Pittsburgh, PA.
I would describe her as a poet in a troubled time. Her second book of poems, “The Woman in the Corner,” was released just as social distancing began. Although initially it had received some acclaim, traction was halted, since no further reviews or readings were possible because of the pandemic. I am certain many other writers have experienced this same misfortune. A topic for a future show, perhaps?
Listening to your program makes my Sunday more special. Thank you for all your efforts to continue presenting your show during these difficult times.
–Richard Krygowski, Florida
My deep gratitude to all your TTBOOK staff. You are and have always been my favorite WPR program. It’s so good to keep in touch, hear your voices and your very thoughtful interviews. What a fantastic program that never fails to make me think deeply and be amazed at the diverse interviews and topics.
I was especially touched by Charles’ words about reading poetry and not being able to concentrate on longer novels. That’s exactly what I have been experiencing. So, I too, read poetry and reread poetry. It helps me so much when you shared those personal words. And continues to inspire me.
For decades I have shared poetry regularly with my elementary school students. Since retiring, I have begun writing poetry and am inspired by my fellow poets/friends in our Marshfield, Cabin Fever Poets.
Thank you for your invitation to write and share poetry. It is more important than ever now to keep in touch through poetry.
–Vlasta Karol Blaha, Wisconsin
So, if you’re stuck in isolation or quarantine, how about another TTBOOK poetry assignment from Charles?
The hip hop artist Erykah Badu says that “Healing is who I am, it’s what I do, it’s how they made me, whoever they are. It’s not up for debate.” Each of the following guests did not have a choice either. Heal or die. Heal or die. As you listen, consider, do you have a choice?
The Power in Naming An Illness (Shira Erlichman)
Here, Bullet (Brian Turner)
Homework: look into the mirror and say out loud five things that others say are beautiful about you. Then five things you think are beautiful about yourself. Breathe in through your nose and hold for five seconds. Breathe out our mouth and hold for 5 seconds. Do this between each one. And remember: embrace the contradictions and do not forget that the greatest thief of your joy is comparison.
–Shannon listen@ttbook.org