A Tribute to Mary Oliver

A panel of poets whose works and lives have been impacted by Mary Oliver’s work read from her poetry, shared some of their own work and participated in a Q&A. Mary Oliver was a prolific poet and writer, publishing a book almost every year or two, many of her works centering on the link between the spiritual and natural worlds. Oliver had strong ties to Massachusetts, making her home in Provincetown until her death earlier this year. Oliver’s work is lauded for its accessibility. As she has herself said, “Poetry, to be understood, must be clear. It mustn't be fancy.” Following the conversation, special guest poet Steven Ratiner presented an archival video of Mary Oliver reading one of her works.

[@yasun5995]

As a Chinese, with totally different culture background, I was struck suddenly by Mary Oliver's poem, like it is, accessible and slowly lead the readers through simple words into a broad view towards the world, our selves, the natures, the relationships with people and nature. So I was astonished by her poems , and Mary is the most favorite poet I ever had in my life. Yes, most of the poems for me, it is too much blur with more complex context to crack, I can't get the click at once, but Mary's poem is so different even it is not written in my mother tongue. Thanks, Mary, Rest and Peace.

[@MsAussiefan]

Yes, you have it exactly right - she's so accessible to anyone who reads her, but she can still lead you into deeper places. I used to teach ESL and had many Chinese students - I *wish* I had thought of using some of her poetry in class.

[@tinabramley6515]

Thank you - this was such a rich conversation

[@aloysiusipolintan7764]

40:00 - 50:00

[@RABIULislam-uo1qm]

ঘ

[@patriciamanning2836]

I'm lll

[@stephencharlton2024]

his hair is so silly