Summary
In this conversation, Danielle Strickland and James Sholl engage with poet Drew Jackson, exploring his journey from a conservative Baptist background to his current role at the Center for Action and Contemplation (CAC). They discuss the intersection of poetry, spirituality, and social justice, emphasizing how poetry serves as a powerful tool for questioning dominant narratives and fostering deeper connections with scripture and community. Drew shares his experiences of using poetry as a means of spiritual practice and social commentary, highlighting the risks involved in speaking out against societal injustices. In this conversation, Drew Jackson and Danielle Strickland explore the profound impact of poetry as a means of prophetic witness and truth-telling. They discuss the importance of maintaining hope and emotional health amidst societal challenges, the legacy of black writers, and the transformative power of scripture when approached through a poetic lens. The dialogue emphasizes the need for resistance against cultural powers and the significance of community connection in fostering resilience and vitality.
Takeaways
Drew Jackson is a poet and Managing Director at CAC.
His poetry serves as a spiritual practice and social commentary.
Contemplation and justice are deeply intertwined in his work.
Poetry invites questions rather than providing answers.
Drew's background influences his approach to spirituality and poetry.
He emphasizes the political nature of poetry.
Drew's work has helped others reconnect with scripture.
The pandemic prompted Drew to explore poetry more deeply.
He faces risks in addressing social issues through his poetry.
Drew believes he speaks not alone, but as part of a larger tradition. Drew Jackson feels a connection to the lineage of black writers.
Writing is a communal act, influenced by past and present voices.
Prophetic witness reveals uncomfortable truths about society.
Resistance to truth is expected in the journey of a prophet.
Contemplative practices are essential for maintaining hope.
Emotional connection is vital for navigating societal challenges.
Mantras can help reinforce a sense of unity and purpose.
Cultural powers often push against our emotional health.
Poetry can express doubts and fears that society wants to suppress.
Scripture's poetic nature enriches its meaning and relevance.
Sound Bites
"I found poetry to be a balm for me."
"Poetry is a political act."
"Poetry is telling it slant."
"Poetry invites us to drop our defenses."
"I don't write alone."
"We should expect resistance."
"We need one another to feel it all."
"Christ is all and is in all."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Drew Jackson
03:00 Drew's Journey and Role at CAC
06:01 The Influence of Contemplation on Justice
08:58 Drew's Connection to Poetry and Spirituality
11:59 The Role of Poetry in Social Commentary
14:56 The Power of Questions in Poetry
17:56 Navigating Risks as a Poet
20:56 The Impact of Poetry on Faith and Community
25:22 The Legacy of Black Writers and Poets
27:03 The Role of Prophetic Witness in Poetry
28:46 Practices for Maintaining Hope and Vitality
30:35 The Gift of Tears and Emotional Connection
32:51 Practicing Mantras for Connection and Hope
34:58 Resistance Training Against Cultural Powers
37:33 The Depth of Scripture and Poetic Interpretation
40:40 The Transformative Power of Poetry in Scripture
45:51 Engaging with Drew Jackson's Work
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