Renowned Poet Naomi Shihab Nye Speaks at Emily Fisher Lecture

Writer-in-Residence Naomi Shihab Nye gave a heartfelt public reading in the Kingwood Auditorium on Wednesday evening as part of the Emily Fisher Lecture Series. She delivered animated renditions of her poems, “Famous” and “Lost,” and revealed her thoughts about the writing process.

“Sometimes you write to find out what you have lived,” says Nye.

Upper School English Department Head William Briggeman finds Nye’s writing style endearing.

“Her poetry reminds us of what we should see—the little things in every day lives that define life—that define the humanity of people we may not know—who are nonetheless human in the ways we are human.”

Nye believes that the role of a poet in society is to be a witness to humanity, to honor detail, and to slow people down and connect them. She spoke of people who inspire her, such as her father, who loves talking and the English language; one of her high school English teachers; a man who keeps her poem, “Making a Fist,” on his refrigerator; and Sunshine, a young Iraqi blogger who loves to learn.

A natural lecturer, Nye infuses humor easily. After reading her poem, “Boy and Mom at the Nutcracker Ballet,” the audience laughed, offering a response she appreciates.

Nye is familiar with Eero Saarinen’s work having lived in St. Louis, Miss., where the Gateway Arch is located.

“I think Cranbrook is one of the most exquisite and imaginative schools I’ve ever visited. The wondrous architectural design details are captivating. I remember it from my visit 11 years ago, but it is wonderful to see it again,” she says.

Nye also spoke to select English classes in the Upper School and the Middle School for Girls, where she found the students and faculty extremely receptive.

The Emily Fisher Lecture Series was created by Herb and Betty Fisher of Bloomfield Hills, Mich. in remembrance of their daughter, Emily, who attended Kingswood. It introduces Cranbrook students, parents and faculty to successful women leaders.