Elisa Matvejeva : part five

How important is music to your poetry?

I don’t think I could write if music didn’t exist. I have a ritual, if you will. I feel an emotion or have an image in my head, but by listening to music, this emotion condenses into tangible words and phrases. There is something so therapeutic about music and how it forms words in my head. I guess it is because I grew up in a household where music was always playing. I guess it helps me think clearly.

Elisa Matvejeva : part four

When you require renewal, is there a particular poem or book that you return to? A particular author?

I’ve shouted from the rooftops about Ocean Vuong before, but he really is an inspiration. I hope that one day, when I require renewal, I could just call him up and have a chat instead of just reading his poetry. But it will suffice for now. His poems just transport me into another realm. He’s the reason I started this journey of publishing. His book Night Sky with Exit Wounds really gets to me, it’s so beautifully crafted. It always manages to renew me.

Elisa Matvejeva : part three

What do you feel poetry can accomplish that other forms can’t?

Poetry is the most concise form of writing and I admire that very much. You could read a poem consisting of only two lines and, if written well, it will transport you into another realm regardless of its length. For me, it’s the easiest way to express myself. I describe a picture or a moment, or a feeling, and, with the use of some key words, I’ve somehow managed to relate to other people. I think that’s beautiful.

Elisa Matvejeva : part two

How do you know when a poem is finished?

A poem is finished when the words start to click. I’m a big fan of the good old circle ending, so I sometimes plan ahead, but that doesn’t always work out. Some poems are written by just writing until I run out of words. Others are written with careful planning. And then there are some that just naturally come to a conclusion. I like to draw back to certain points in the poem and end it by almost summarising, so it reads almost like an essay.

Elisa Matvejeva : part one

Elisa Matvejeva is a contemporary poet and filmmaker currently residing in London, England. From her travels around the world, she has gained a unique voice and uses it to write her poems. Elisa has been writing since she could hold a pen and, with her mother's encouragement, has made sure always to keep creating. With the publication of her first book, Elisa hopes to continue making more of both beautiful words and films. In her free time, she enjoys films, wine, and cuddling small animals. She's on Instagram as: @elisa.matvejeva

How does a poem begin?

For me, every poem has to start off either with a bang or a truth. Every poem must be ingrained into the reader’s memory as something they could relate to or picture very clearly. Something fascinating enough to stay on their mind despite the poem having ended long before. I think it’s important to grip your reader early on. Many poems have strong punchlines at the end, but I believe in the importance of creating a lasting first impression.