Let's Dive Into "Life on Mars"
In Symposium class, we have been diving deeply into Tracy K. Smith's Pulitzer-Prize winning third book of poetry Life on Mars, which explores a vast array of different topics and themes that, at large, make up a discussion about the human experience and human existence. With a myriad of allusions to David Bowie, which can be seen in the titular "Life on Mars," as well as many other pop culture references interspersed throughout, this collection serves as a vehicle to a more complete understanding of the universe. Smith in these poems envisions a sci-fi, dystopian future that is devoid of any true threats and dangers; wonders about the dark matter of our universe that serves to keep people both closely connected and also ever distant; and contemplates her relationships, both with those around her and those who have passed, specifically her relationship with and connection to her father, who worked on the Hubble Space Telescope and was the main factor in Smith's growing interest in life beyond our Earth.
Below are several videos of/interviews with Smith connected to Life on Mars. Be sure to check these out to stay up to date with what we are learning about and exploring in Symposium class!
From PBS News Hour: "Life on Mars" Author Explores Humans’ Relationship With Universe Through Poetry
https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/life-on-mars-author-explores-humans-relationship-with-the-universe
From PBS News Hour: Tracy K. Smith Reads From "Life of Mars"
https://www.pbs.org/video/pbs-newshour-tracy-k-smith-reads-from-life-of-mars/
If you're looking for a more in-depth viewing, watch this video (which Symposium students had the opportunity to watch together in class) to learn more about Smith's thinking behind Life on Mars and her views on the existential questions that surround the universe, loss, and love that are explored in the collection. You will also hear personal readings of several poems from the book.
From a Stanford University Lecture with Smith
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