This episode is the fourth of our podcast special, in a collaboration special with the Center for Humans and Nature. It is series that celebrates the Center’s series ‘Elementals’ as well as a celebration of the many voices that contributed to the series. It is a great honor to finally shares these episodes with you.
In this conversation, Leora and I discuss the Earth Elementals volume, exploring themes of inheritance, responsibility, and the interconnectedness of life. Leora shares her journey as a geographer and poet, emphasizing the importance of understanding our relationship with the earth and its elements. The discussion highlights the diverse contributions of various authors, the intimacy of storytelling, and the significance of memory and history in shaping our future. They reflect on the power of poetry and the need for cooperation in addressing environmental challenges.We speak to the profound perspectives that emerge from the contributions to the Elementals volume.
NOTE: THE SOUND IS AT TIMES A BIT ‘CLICKY’ DUE TO A FAULTY MICROFON. THIS COULD NOT BE FIXED DURING EDITING. WE DECIDED TO KEEP IT, AS LEORA HAS SO MANY VALID INSIGHT AND THOUGHT.
Thank you for listening.
Takeaways
Inheritance is complex, involving responsibility and creativity.
Research should focus on recovering relationships with nature.
The earth is a living entity that teaches us about life.
Storytelling creates intimacy and connection with the earth.
Each author's voice in the volume offers unique perspectives.
Understanding history is crucial for survival and thriving together.
Indigenous knowledge holds valuable lessons for contemporary issues.
Poetry can change consciousness and perspective.
Cooperation is essential for learning from the earth.
“What earth have you inherited?”
Kristi Leora Gansworth (she/her) is Anishinabe-kwe, a community-engaged scholar and Anishinabe geographer. Her professional work draws from Anishinabe legal traditions including relationships and responsibilities to water. She has been involved in collaborations with First Nations in Canada and Tribal Nations in the United States for a number of years, dedicated to supporting the priorities of Peoples and Nations. Her primary collaborative work involves research, writing, and planning for restorative futures. The personal work of Dr. Gansworth as a writer and artist grows from being Anishinabe, involving the practices of cultural knowledge & language learning. Dr. Gansworth also has training and background in certain fine arts including poetry. She maintains ancestral practices which include working with healing medicines, needlework, dance, and sacred regalia design.
About the series
From the Center for Humans & Nature, Elementals is a new five-volume collection of essays, poetry, and stories that asks: What can the vital forces of Earth, Air, Water, and Fire teach us about being human in a more-than-human world?
Learn more about Elementals at www.humansandnature.org/elementals
Find out where to buy the books here