Ep 1. Welcome to the Mainland

Welcome to the Mainland is the first episode of the first season of Bill Moyers: The Language of Life. In this episode, host Bill Moyers takes viewers on a journey through the diverse world of American poetry.

Through interviews and readings with a variety of poets, Moyers explores the ways in which poetry can capture the essence of the human experience. From the deeply personal to the political, the poets featured in this episode offer insight into the power of language to express emotions and ideas that can be difficult to articulate in any other form.

Viewers are introduced to a range of poets, including Adrienne Rich, Joy Harjo, and Amiri Baraka. Each poet brings their own unique perspective to the art form, sharing their thoughts on everything from the role of poetry in society to the ways in which personal experiences shape their work.

Throughout the episode, Moyers also examines the history of American poetry, tracing its roots back to Walt Whitman and Emily Dickinson, and exploring the ways in which it has evolved over time. From the Beat poets of the 1950s to the spoken word poets of today, Moyers showcases the diversity of the American poetry scene.

In addition to interviews and readings, Welcome to the Mainland also features live performances from some of the featured poets. From the haunting melodies of Joy Harjo's flute to the powerful words of Amiri Baraka's spoken poetry, these performances bring the art form to life in a way that is truly captivating.

Whether you are a lifelong poetry enthusiast or simply curious about the beauty and power of the written word, Bill Moyers: The Language of Life is sure to leave a lasting impression. This first episode sets the tone for what promises to be an engaging and thought-provoking exploration of one of humanity's most powerful and versatile art forms.