VIMHS
Vancouver Island Mental Health Society
Responding to prejudice with poetry
Responding to prejudice with poetry
Responding to prejudice with poetry
Thursday 21st September 2023
Join Spencer Smith as he uses poetry to confront stigma and share his personal struggles with addiction in 'A Brief Relief from Hunger'.
29 minutes
Inspiring
Informative
Empowering
Compassionate
Honest
About this podcast
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VIMHS
Overview:
Categories:
Sobriety Toolkit
Sexual Empowerment & Identity
Community & Support Networks
Policy & Advocacy
Body & Mind
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Get the buttons here!Poetry as a Shield: Spencer Smith Confronts Stigma and Addiction
Episode Overview
- Spencer Smith responds to online prejudice with poetry in 'A Brief Relief from Hunger.'
- His collection explores addiction, recovery, societal stigma, and personal growth.
- Smith reflects on his experiences with addiction and the impact of hateful online comments.
- Through his poems, he humanizes drug users and advocates for compassion and understanding.
- The book delves into themes of masculinity, family dynamics, and the complexities of recovery.
I think just seeing the humanity of people who use illicit substances and the societal factors that lead people into the tough places that they're in, like from homelessness to substance use. In my view, it's a result of the society that we created.
Spencer Smith's journey from addiction to recovery is nothing short of inspiring. In this episode of People First Radio, Spencer shares how he turned to poetry to combat the harsh online comments targeting drug users. His book, 'A Brief Relief from Hunger,' published by Gordon Hill Press, is a heartfelt collection that weaves together his childhood memories, struggles with addiction, and the path to recovery.
Through his poems, Spencer not only addresses the stigma surrounding substance use but also opens up about themes like masculinity and family dynamics. His raw and honest reflections aim to humanize drug users and foster compassion. If you're interested in the intersection of art, mental health, and societal perceptions, this episode is a must-listen. Spencer's story is a powerful reminder that creativity can be a healing force, challenging societal norms and sparking important conversations.