Leanne Betasamosake Simpson on how poetry exists between time and space
April is National Poetry Month. To celebrate, CBC Books asked poets the question: "What is the power of poetry?"
Leanne Betasamosake Simpson is a Michi Saagiig Nishnaabeg musician, artist, author and member of Alderville First Nation.
- How turning to her Nishnaabeg roots helped Leanne Betasamosake Simpson overcome a creative challenge
Her work often centres on the struggles of Indigenous Canadians. Her latest book, a collection of stories and poems called This Accident of Being Lost, was on the shortlist for the Rogers Writers' Trust Fiction Prize.
"Poetry, and I mean all kinds of poetry — rap, lyrics, ancient stories echoing into the future from the present, the sounds and vibrations of Indigenous languages, the interstitial spaces between notes, and poetics of ice melting — is important because poetry holds space for other worlds.
"Worlds that exist despite and in spite of the tremendous violence of colonialism or anti-Blackness. Imagined, realized, birthed even temporarily, poetry allows us to feel and taste and breath freedom."
Comments
To encourage thoughtful and respectful conversations, first and last names will appear with each submission to CBC/Radio-Canada's online communities (except in children and youth-oriented communities). Pseudonyms will no longer be permitted.
By submitting a comment, you accept that CBC has the right to reproduce and publish that comment in whole or in part, in any manner CBC chooses. Please note that CBC does not endorse the opinions expressed in comments. Comments on this story are moderated according to our Submission Guidelines. Comments are welcome while open. We reserve the right to close comments at any time.
Become a CBC Member
Join the conversation Create account
Already have an account?