Ep 3. Cascadilla Falls
- February 4, 2022
- 25 min
Poetry in America is a documentary series that explores the power of poetry through the analysis of classic and contemporary works. In season 3 episode 3, titled Cascadilla Falls, host Elisa New takes viewers on a literary journey through Ithaca, New York to explore the poems inspired by Cascadilla Falls.
Located on the campus of Cornell University in Ithaca, Cascadilla Falls is a picturesque waterfall formed by Cascadilla Creek. The episode opens with stunning shots of the waterfall and the surrounding natural beauty of the area.
Elisa New is joined by guest poets Joanna Scott, Jorie Graham, and Robert Morgan to analyze poems inspired by Cascadilla Falls. The first poem discussed is "Cascadilla Falls" by William Floyd, a Cornell University alum. The group discusses the themes of nature and time in the poem, as well as the impact of the waterfall on the speaker.
Next, the group analyzes "Cascadilla" by Kevin Young, a contemporary poet. The poem is read by Young himself, adding a personal dimension to the discussion. The group focuses on the use of sound and imagery in the poem, as well as Young's use of metaphor to explore the power of nature.
The episode also explores the historical significance of Cascadilla Falls, including its importance to Indigenous populations and its role in the development of Ithaca. The group reads excerpts from historical documents and letters to gain a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of the area.
The episode concludes with a discussion of the poem "Cascadilla Creek" by Robert Morgan, one of the guest poets. The group explores the use of language and imagery in the poem to create a vivid picture of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape.
Throughout the episode, Elisa New leads the discussion with insightful questions and observations. The guest poets provide their own unique perspectives, drawing on their own experiences and expertise to offer a multifaceted analysis of the poems.
Overall, Poetry in America season 3 episode 3 offers a thoughtful and engaging exploration of the intersection of nature, history, and poetry at Cascadilla Falls.
