Hailed as the “father of free verse,” poet and essayist Walt Whitman bridged the gap between the transcendentalist and realist movements to become one of the most innovative and influential voices of 19th-century American literature. In his writing, Whitman explores the relationship between the physical and spiritual worlds, examines the symbiotic kinship of nature and humankind, and boldly celebrates the body and soul in sensual, often controversial language. In the preface to his seminal work “Leaves of Grass,” Whitman calls on readers to “re-examine all you have been told at school or church or in any book, dismiss whatever insults your own soul; and your very flesh shall be a great poem…” With this quote, Whitman reminds us to analyze everything we’ve been taught through a critical lens and to cast off anything that doesn’t feel authentic and honorable to our existence.

Buddy Wakefield is an American spoken-word artist and poet who’s been featured by NPR and the BBC for his talents. In 2001, he left his job as an executive assistant to perform in poetry venues throughout the United States for two years while mostly living out of his car. In addition to being a three-time winner of the Individual World Poetry Slam Finals, Wakefield has also dabbled in acting. His poetry often draws on moments shared with the people around him, from dysfunctional families to a roadside diner waitress. These words from his poem “Pretend” remind us to focus on being present as much as possible. After all, we never know what wisdom or joy we may gain by paying attention.