Oliver de la Paz discusses the intersection of poetry, physical pain, and the healing process. As a former EMT turned poet and professor, he brings a unique perspective to this interesting topic. Oliver shares how writing and reading poetry can be a transformative practice that helps individuals navigate their experiences with physical pain and ultimately find healing. For me personally, I took Oliver's class "Poetics of Pain" when I was a senior in college. Ironically, about a month into the class I started having debilitating chronic pain from a herniated disc injury in my lower back. His class and this overarching theme of poetics of pain had a profound impact on my healing process and my evolution as a person.
Timestamps:
00:00 How I Was Introduced To Poetics of Pain
01:23 From EMT to Poet
04:35 The Healing Power of Poetry
08:27 Writing vs. Reading: Different Paths to Healing
11:35 Recovery vs. Healing: Understanding the Difference
13:18 Poetry Bridging The Gap
19:01 Misconception of Poetry in Medicine
22:36 Experiencing Pain: A Shared Journey
25:58 Art as Sustenance: The Importance of Creativity
27:51 Reflection on Pain: Writing from a Distance
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