The Universal Power of Poetry: A Conversation with Laura Grevel

Join host Dr. Michael Anthony Ingram as he inaugurates the newly rebranded Quintessential Poetry platform with acclaimed poet and spoken word artist Laura Grevel. In this episode, Laura shares profound insights from her extensive life across five different countries. Delving into her poetic influences, the importance of capturing human stories, and the themes that drive her work, Laura reads a variety of her poetic pieces. Topics range from migration and identity to politics and nature. Additionally, she discusses the unique power of poetry to inspire empathy, touching on her personal experiences and the universal emotions encapsulated within her words. Listen as they explore the essence of poetry, its ability to convey deep human truths, and Laura's fascinating journey as a poet.

00:00 Introduction to Quintessential Poetry
00:52 Interview with Laura Greville: A Journey Through Poetry
02:17 Je Suis Frau Spaghetti: A Poetic Performance
04:04 The Power and Purpose of Poetry
06:33 Early Influences and the Impact of Poetic Language
08:19 Themes and Inspirations in Laura's Work
12:20 1980 Juneteenth Rising: A Poetic Reflection
14:47 The Process of Writing Poetry
15:44 Performance Poetry and Emotional Expression
20:29 Nomad: A Poem of Movement and Memory
22:59 Influences and Inspirations: From Stevenson to Angelou
29:17 The Neck of the Head: A Storytelling Poem
32:54 Communicating Humanity Through Poetry
35:06 Empathy and Storytelling
35:47 The Power of Poetry
36:15 Journey: A Poem
37:37 The Craft of Writing Poetry
41:57 The Emotional Impact of Poetry
44:27 Children: A Poem
46:03 Vulnerability in Writing
51:48 Revenge is Off the Table: A Poem
56:52 The Role of a Poet
01:03:25 Poetry Lovers Concert
01:10:10 Reflections on Being a Poet