I recently encountered this Town Hall Seattle onstage conversation between poet Shin Yu Pai and zen teacher Peter Levitt. I don't know much about zen teachings, but Pai proves to be a really great interrogator. I think her investigative artistry, as well as her career as a poet, helps her to be a compassionate and curious religious investigator.

I'd love to see a reading series in this city that puts local poets to work examining religious belief by pairing with visiting authors of spiritual books. Perhaps when Town Hall reopens, they'll consider taking on a new series.