Ada Limón — “To Be Made Whole”

Silence & Creation

Ada Limón emphasizes the profound role of silence in the creative process. She shares that beginning with silence is crucial for writing, as it allows one to listen deeply to oneself and the world around them. This practice is not only a creative tool but also a spiritual one, as it invites introspection and connection to one's inner voice. Limón reflects on her childhood experiences with her grandfather's musical Spanish, which influenced her love for the musicality of language and poetry 1.

For me, the biggest thing is to begin with silence. Like, well, if you're having trouble writing or creating or whatever it is you make, like, when was the last time you just sat in silence with yourself.

--- Ada Limón

This approach to silence as a starting point for creation highlights its importance in fostering a deeper understanding of language and expression 2.

   

Silence as Meditation

Silence is also explored as a form of meditation and self-care by Ada Limón. She describes various ways of being quiet, each offering a unique form of solace and introspection. From standing in a field to lying on the kitchen floor, these moments of silence serve as a refuge and a means to connect with oneself. Limón's poem "The Quiet Machine" encapsulates this exploration, illustrating silence as a powerful force that can both calm and overwhelm 2.

There's a silence that comes back a million times bigger than me, sneaks into my bones and wails and wails and wails until I can't be quiet anymore. That's how this machine works.

--- Ada Limón

This meditation on silence underscores its role in personal growth and emotional resilience, offering a path to self-discovery and healing.