52docs / 27 - Just to be alive

Can words get used up?

Does capitalism suck the meaning out of their marrow by turning them into fridge magnets?

That’s a question I’m holding as I prepare to watch our next film which examines the life and work of America’s unlikely contemporary mystic.

I love the idea her popularity is “proof that people are hungry for exactly what Mary Oliver offered - permission to slow down, pay attention, and let the natural world be enough“.

David Whyte, a poet with whom I collaborated a few years ago, says that poetry is language against which we have no defenses.

How well can that language translate to documentary? Let’s find out…

Interview with the filmmaker

Interesting review

Trailer

Watch free on PBS from August 25th or rent from the usual places

PS. I absolutely loved last week’s film - go check it out if you haven’t already.