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On today’s episode of VS, Ajanae and Brittany are joined by poet Omotara James. Join them as they discuss the failure of poetry as savior, whistleblowers, art as a meet-cute, resisting shielding the speaker, and building trust with the reader. 

Until Next Time: 

Here is some media to accompany your experience of the episode and a writing prompt to tide you over until we meet again!

• Sharon Olds: Sharon Olds talks about her work
• Michaela Coel: ‘There is power in the word no’: Michaela Coel’s journey from Chewing Gum to I May Destroy You | CBC Comedy
• Lucille Clifton: Lucille Clifton talks of her books of poems, including “Good Times”

Writing Prompt: 

Write a confessional poem that addresses your reader directly.