Naomi Shihab Nye talks with Paul Holdengräber about how poetry is an important tool for both thought and action. Naomi reflects on her upbringing in Ferguson, MO., where she experienced segregation, and in Southern Texas, where she experienced the local Mexican culture. Naomi and Paul also talk about a range of music from new Palestinian recording artists and old favorites.Naomi Shihab Nye is the Young People's Poet Laureate (Poetry Foundation), the Poetry Editor for the New York Times Magazine, on faculty at Texas State University, and author or editor of more than 30 books. She was selected by the National Book Critics Circle to receive the Ivan Sandrof Lifetime Achievement Award, 2020.Naomi Shihab Nye | BrocadeThe Arabs used to say,When a stranger appears at your door,feed him for three daysbefore asking who he is,where he’s come from,where he’s headed.That way, he’ll have strengthenough to answer.Or, by then you’ll besuch good friendsyou don’t care.Let’s go back to that.Rice? Pine nuts?Here, take the red brocade pillow.My child will serve waterto your horse.No, I was not busy when you came!I was not preparing to be busy.That’s the armor everyone put onto pretend they had a purposein the world.I refuse to be claimed.Your plate is waiting.We will snip fresh mintinto your tea.Credits:Paul Holdengraber - Co-Creator, Host, OLA DirectorAnthony Audi - Co-Creator, Researcher, OLA DirectorAlejandro Cohen - Co-Creator, Producer, ComposerChristian Pitt - Production Coordinator Erin Cooney - Copy, ProductionDublab Team