Emily Graslie reads “First Encounter Beach”

The transcript explores the work of poet Alison Hawthorne Deming, focusing on her blend of nature and science in poetry. It describes a whale beaching event, reflecting on the mysteries of nature. The narrator shares personal stories about family, including a journey to Connecticut to visit a father in the hospital. The narrative intertwines themes of nature, family, and healing, concluding with a story about the grandmother's vision of crows, symbolizing healing and resilience.

What motivated the speaker to explore contemporary poets like Alison Hawthorne Deming?

• A personal interest in historical poetry

• A project requirement to find poets writing about nature and science

• A recommendation from a friend

• A desire to write poetry themselves

What is the main focus of the scene involving the pilot whales?

• The scientific explanation for the beaching

• The celebration of the whales' return to the ocean

• The emotional impact of the beaching on spectators

• The successful rescue of the whales

What personal journey does the speaker describe in the second section?

• A trip to the beach

• A visit to a museum

• A journey to Connecticut to visit their father

• A childhood memory of skiing

How does the speaker view the role of medicine in their father's life?

• As a futile effort

• As a source of hope and healing

• As a temporary solution

• As an unnecessary intervention

What unusual event did the speaker's grandmother experience during her illness?

• She heard music playing

• She felt a sudden warmth

• She saw crows in her room

• She saw a vision of the ocean