What do you find most difficult about writing poetry?
I find that writing poetry is, for me, the most intimate genre of writing. So much of me is present in each poem and, even though I try to convince myself that I’m not that much in a poem, I usually am. It is the genre that is closest to my heart, mind, and body. It’s the most visceral, alive, and heart-beaty kind of thing. Writing with honesty is something I strive for, but I also feel very vulnerable and a bit naked when reading my work in public. Maybe that’s because it’s so important to me, so it takes a bit of courage—always—to submit poems to journals and contests, but also to rise and read in front of others.
The other part that always challenges me is editing, as I learn to become a better editor of my own work with each book of poems that I read and review, and with each poem that I write and revise. With age and practice, at 51 now, I can say that I’m a stronger editor of my own work, but still love to learn from poetry editors I’ve worked with over the last few years. I never want to stop learning how to become a better poet.
No comments:
Post a Comment