On the island of Maui, Haleakala rises 10,000 feet – nearly two miles – into the sky. The massive crater carries the unique distinction of being "the quietest place on Earth." The exquisite stillness of its stark volcanic landscape inspires a variety of experiences ranging from spiritual to philosophical.

Examine the life and work of the poet laureate, two-time Pulitzer Prize winner and environmental activist who has dedicated himself to preserving and regenerating native plants at his home on Maui.

In his more than fifty year career, William S. Merwin has received nearly every major award for poetry, including two Pulitzer prizes. He has traveled widely and lived in Europe, but since the late seventies Haiku, Maui has been his home. It is also where he found an affinity for native Hawaiian culture and where he crafted a mythical, Hawaiian narrative. He talks to Leslie about how his love for words began as a child, when his mother would read to him. He also reads from some of his poetry collections.

Download the PDF of this news release National PBS documentary features local efforts to perpetuate Hawaiian language HONOLULU, HI – What does it take to save a language? Poet Bob Holman travels across the globe to uncover answers – including a stop in Hawaii to feature ongoing efforts to perpetuate our native language.