In our final episode of our mini series “On My Bookshelf,” Jules interviews one of the most influential figures in the American arts scene: Dana Gioia. Mr. Gioia has spent his professional life attempting to bring the arts back into the lives of everyday Americans, including as an award-winning poet, serving as the head of the National Endowment for the Arts, and ending his career as the current Poet Laurette of the state of California. He is a man of deep faith and love for the Church, and I was thrilled to speak with him about the necessity of Beauty as a means of drawing others into the love of God.
Music for Today’s Episode:
Pity the Beautiful
Words by Dana Gioia, music by Helen Sung. © 2018 Co-producded by Helen Sung and Daryl Harper. As recorded on Sung with Words. All rights reserved. Used by permission.
Please visit Helen Sung’s website for more information about her wonderful album and the song, “Pity the Beautiful”!
Please visit Dana’s website for more information about his incredible career in the arts, including his collections of poetry throughout the years. And please visit Wiseblood Books for information about Dana’s new collection of essays, “The Catholic Writer Today.” Check out Dana Gioia’s new book!
This is the final episode before the start of Season 2, which launches Thursday, May 18. Thank you so much for all your support in this first season!
Blessings, Jules