Poetry collection “River Names” and other nature-centric pieces were read
By John Mahoney
KU English professor Dr. Michael Downing showcased both new and old poems for Earth Day in Rohrbach Library’s Brick Lounge on Wednesday, April 22 at 4:30 p.m.
The reading featured poems from Downing’s recent poetry collection, “River Names,” as well as works from renowned poets with acclaimed nature-centric pieces. “River Names,” was available for purchase and signing at the event.
Photo Credit: John Mahoney
Downing opened the reading by sharing some Earth Day-related notes and stories and a few poems from his book, including “Hemlock,” “River Octopus” and “Stopping by a Bridge on a Rainy Afternoon,” a poem inspired by Robert Frost’s “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening,” which Downing read beforehand.
Works by Mary Oliver followed the “River Names” poems, as Downing recalled his emotional first time reading “Wild Geese.” Other Oliver poems included selections from the collections “Why I Wake Early” and “Dream Work.”
Downing’s premiere poems concluded the reading shortly after 5 p.m. The three new poems, “Sand has Arisen,” “Dmv” and “River of Time,” explored themes of artificial intelligence, growing old and appreciating nature.
He then shared anecdotes about what nature and Earth Day mean to him, especially as he reflects on the passage of time. One anecdote added context to his poem “Hemlock,” including its line about the two white stripes on the back of a hemlock needle.
“It was just something I had heard a long time ago. There are two white lines on the back of a hemlock needle–that’s how you identify them,” said Downing. “I think it encapsulates what I’m really trying to get at with my poetry. Sometimes you just won’t notice and appreciate the small things if you don’t take time to look.”
After the reading, Downing answered audience questions about growing up in western Pennsylvania and kayaking. Snacks, refreshments and poetry activities were available to listeners.