Wicked Problems

More Poetry with Jenny Mitchell

In this course Jenny Mitchell looks at poems exploring “wicked problems”. In the first module, we introduce the concept of wicked problems, and how poetry can be a tool to reflect upon complex global issues. In the second module, we look at Derek Walcott’s poem ‘The Sea is History’. In the third module, we analyse Danez Smith’s poem, ‘alternate names for black boys’. In the fourth module, we examine Michael Rosen’s poem ‘These Are the Hands’ written to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the NHS.

Wicked Problems

In this module, we explore the role of poetry in addressing "wicked problems," focusing on: (i) defining "wicked problems" as complex, ongoing global issues like climate change, poverty, and violence; (ii) using poetry to foster dialogue around well-being, resilience, and community through partnerships with educational and cultural institutions; (iii) challenging perceptions of poetry as elitist and exploring its potential to bridge social divisions; (iv) examining the legacy of British transatlantic enslavement as a root cause of systemic racism and inequality; (v) utilising poetry as a tool for processing and reflecting on complex contemporary issues.