Philip Schultz’s ENORMOUS MORNING: Life, Poetry & Freedom

In this deeply reflective episode of Writer's Voice, Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Philip Schultz discusses his latest collection, Enormous Mourning, a powerful meditation on aging, memory, and the possibility of renewal in later life. At 80 years old, Schultz reflects on his journey through loss, regret, and the enduring presence of loved ones—both living and deceased—while finding unexpected joy and meaning in the everyday. Through readings of poems like 'Enormous Morning,' 'Good News,' and the long-form 'Something and Nothing,' he explores how poetry becomes a vessel for transcendence, forgiveness, and moral courage. He confronts the political turmoil of our time with poems on figures like Alexei Navalny and the fragility of democracy, arguing that art and poetry are not escapes but essential tools for confronting truth and preserving dignity in dark times. Schultz also shares intimate personal stories—from his father’s struggles to his friendship with the immigrant worker Santos—revealing how creativity, empathy, and connection sustain the human spirit. The conversation underscores poetry’s role as a form of resilience and ethical engagement. Schultz emphasizes that writing is a way of asking hard questions, transforming pain into clarity, and finding grace even in sorrow. His ability to blend humor with gravity, personal history with universal themes, and artistic craft with political awareness makes this collection a testament to the enduring power of the poetic voice. Ultimately, the episode affirms that poetry is not merely an art form but a vital practice for living with integrity, hope, and courage in uncertain times.