Summary

In this episode of Writer’s Voice, celebrated novelist Ann Patchett discusses the annotated release of her beloved novel Bel Canto, exploring how themes of love, art, and humanity resonate in times of crisis.

Patchett reflects on her writing process, the tenderness of her characters, and how art can provide solace in difficult times.

The, poet and activist Kathy Engel discusses her collection, Dear Inheritors, touching on the intersections of poetry, social justice, and the ongoing struggles against racism and privilege.

Engel’s work reflects on her life experiences and the contradictions of beauty and violence in society, emphasizing the importance of holding space for vulnerability, honesty, and collective healing. We last spoke with her in 2014.

Writers Voice— in depth conversation with writers of all genres, on the air since 2004.

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Key words: Ann Patchett, Bel Canto annotated, Kathy Engel, Dear Inheritors, poetry, writing process, art and activism, podcast, Writer’s Voice

Key Quotes:

1. “Art is the point. In critical moments, art really does surge forward.” —Ann Patchett
2. “If we believe we are all connected, we are all of one life, all deserving of love and forgiveness.” —Ann Patchett
3. “I will not write a poem over the graves of children… Give me a language for the stem that loves the root fully.” —Kathy Engel

Key Topics:

• The power of art in times of crisis and Patchett’s reflections on the role of storytelling
• Annotating Bel Canto: Patchett’s process and insights on themes of time, tenderness, and resilience
• Engel’s Dear Inheritors: the struggle with privilege, white supremacy, and social justice through poetry
• The importance of vulnerability and connection in addressing social and personal conflicts
• Contradictions in beauty and violence in nature and human relationships

Timestamps:

• [0:00] Introduction
• [3:30] Ann Patchett on the inspiration for annotating Bel Canto
• [8:20] Exploring themes of time and humanity in Bel Canto
• [12:40] The role of art in times of social and personal crisis
• [20:15] Kathy Engel on Dear Inheritors: poetry, privilege, and activism
• [32:45] Confronting privilege and vulnerability through poetry
• [42:00] Nature, beauty, and violence in Engel’s work