Poet Maggie Smith Finds Clarity in Solitude

Smith's latest poetry collection, 'A Suit or a Suitcase,' explores how intentional time alone can improve mental health.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 5:20pm

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Poet Maggie Smith's latest collection, 'A Suit or a Suitcase,' delves into how solitude can bring insight and clarity, even in difficult times. Smith, a New York Times bestselling author, found solitude rewarding following her divorce, allowing her to better connect with herself and her creativity. The collection explores the mind-body connection and the role of the body in containing the self. Smith hopes readers will be changed and inspired by her poems, just as she is by the works she reads.

Why it matters

Solitude is an important but often overlooked aspect of mental health and wellness. This story highlights how intentional time alone can provide benefits across the lifespan, from improved mood and emotion regulation to increased creativity. As more people grapple with the effects of loneliness, particularly in the wake of the pandemic, understanding the value of solitude is crucial.

The details

Maggie Smith, a poet known for her nine books of poetry and prose, found solitude rewarding following her divorce. Her latest collection, 'A Suit or a Suitcase,' explores the mind-body connection and the role of the body in containing the self. Smith approached the project one poem at a time over the past five years, with the collection only taking shape once she saw all the poems together. The title poem, 'A Suit or a Suitcase,' engages with the way Smith's body has been with her through different life stages, from childhood to middle age.

  • Smith's divorce, which inspired much of the poetry in 'A Suit or a Suitcase,' occurred several years ago.
  • The collection was published in 2026.

The players

Maggie Smith

A New York Times bestselling author of nine books of poetry and prose, including the latest collection 'A Suit or a Suitcase.'

Psychology Today

The publication that conducted the interview with Maggie Smith about her latest poetry collection and the role of solitude in mental health.

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What they’re saying

“I'm a poet first and foremost, though I've published a few prose books over the past few years—including a memoir, You Could Make This Place Beautiful, and a book on creativity and the craft of writing, Dear Writer: Pep Talks & Practical Advice for the Creative Life.”

— Maggie Smith, Poet

“The title poem, 'A Suit or a Suitcase,' engages these ideas directly. I found myself thinking about the way my body has been with me through so many stages of my life—childhood, young adulthood, new motherhood, and middle age.”

— Maggie Smith, Poet

“That poem is about solitude, and in particular the solitude of being single again after a long relationship. My divorce was incredibly difficult, and it took a lot from me, but it also gave me something—the opportunity to take responsibility for myself and my life. That in itself was clarifying.”

— Maggie Smith, Poet

What’s next

Maggie Smith is currently on a book tour to promote 'A Suit or a Suitcase' and discuss the role of solitude in mental health and creativity.

The takeaway

This story highlights the often overlooked benefits of solitude, which can provide clarity, insight, and an opportunity for personal growth, even in the face of difficult life transitions. Maggie Smith's poetry collection serves as a powerful testament to the mind-body connection and the therapeutic power of creative expression.