Conflict Resolution for Holy Beings

Poems

By: Joy Harjo

Narrated by: Joy Harjo

A musical, magical, resilient volume from the first Native American Poet Laureate of the United States

In these poems, the joys and struggles of the everyday are played against the grinding politics of being human. Beginning in a hotel room in the dark of a distant city, we travel through history and follow the memory of the Trail of Tears from the bend in the Tallapoosa River to a place near the Arkansas River. Stomp dance songs, blues, and jazz ballads echo throughout. Lost ancestors are recalled. Resilient songs are born, even as they grieve the loss of their country. Called a “magician and a master” (San Francisco Chronicle), Joy Harjo is at the top of her form in Conflict Resolution for Holy Beings.

©2019 Joy Harjo (P)2019 Blackstone Publishing

A beautiful gift

This was so enjoyable from beginning to end. Hearing the songs sung by the writer is such a beautiful gift. I finished it and immediately began listening again.

Beautiful, insightful poems

The best part is the narrator is the author. Joy Harjo uses spare words and often incorporates truths about the natural world and the human condition based on her Native American heritage.
You can tell that music was an important part of her being. She often uses native phrases and bits of song in her work. Joy Harjo was also an accomplished jazz saxophone player, and those scatty rhythms are also present in her reading.

This is a powerful, inspirational collection.
It’s sad that Joy has left this life. It was wonderful to be able to hear her voice again as she narrated this volume of her poetry.

Incredible 💜

Holy poetry

Holy poetry that is a gift extended. I’m speechless. I am undone. Her voice is like listening to moving water. Completely spellbound.

Perhaps her poems will save your life

Joy Harjo’s poetry carried me through a lot of pain early in my life and now, nearly 30 years later, her work continues to work its magic. It is such a gift to be able to hear her read and sing her own poems. So much gratitude for Joy Harjo.

Like a necessary restful nap

Beautifully delivered and I was a willing participant in the journey Joy unknowingly invites us on. Thank you very kindly from my spirit to yours.