Oct
05
2008
I find my own writing patterns to be somewhat peculiar. I’ve noticed that when writing articles, essays and reviews that I am more comfortable and need to be sitting in front of my computer writing as I am doing right now. For some unknown reason when I write poetry this is the last place I want or need to be. Writing poetry takes me out of the house, usually surrounded by a natural setting with my notebook and pen. Even if I have an idea for a poem while I am home, I cannot sit in front of the computer and create the poem.
I guess I tend to think of the computer more as a business type tool rather than a means to create art. Even when reading poetry online versus within the pages of a book I find it a bit clinical online as opposed to feeling entranced by the journey through the pages of a book. It’s strange I know but it’s the little idiosyncrasies which make each of us writers unique.
So, what are yours?
Oct
05
2008
I was 10 years old when my Mom bought me my first book of poetry. It was titled Speak Nature by James Walker Sr. A Lyceum book by Carlton Press. That was 42 years ago and I still have the book. It is a compilation of traditional poetry about Nature and God. I fell in love with poetry as a result of this book. I carried it around with me wherever I went and read it constantly to a point where I had all the poems memorized. She gave me poetry books all throughout my life and was the one person who inspired my creativity.I was sitting in a 7th grade civics class one day, my mind wandering and in a state of sheer boredom. Trying to act like I was taking notes, words danced around in my mind and a lyrical sound filled my head with sweet vibrations. I began to write and by the end of the class had penned this utter masterpiece. I was 13 years old - 39 years ago.
One
As I go searching
Into the core of my mind
I find myself wandering
Through the particles of time
I cannot be blamed
For the prejudice and hate
For I am as one
And only love I do generate.
I read this now and wonder what in the world was in my head while writing this piece? I have no idea. I can’t even remember what was in my head yesterday let alone 39 years ago. In any case I think it’s fun to share our firsts. So, with that in mind, please share your firsts with me.