Former poet laureate explains what poetry's role is

Natasha Trethewey, former poet laureate of the United States, has a new poetry collection out called Monument.

When she appeared on Weekend Edition to discuss the book, Scott Simon asked her what she thought poetry’s role was today.

Her response? “Speaking across the lines that would divide us. Reminding us not what makes us different, but what makes us alike, what we share.”

What better time to share that message (and the whole interview) than the day after Election Day?

Listen below or read the highlights on NPR’s website.