6 comments


  • I completely relate. My intention for this year was to focus on meeting new poets in my community, because I really need that personal connection to keep me going. The publishing aspect is too frustrating and time-consuming otherwise. So much has changed in the poetry business in the last few years between technology and the economy–both new opportunities and old ways changing.

    August 14, 2013
  • Lovely suggestions and thoughts, Jeannine!

    Truthfully, even without reading lists, I am happy for lists (because it arbitrarily brings together folks who are in the same field). And just brings attention to the fact that poetry is THRIVING.

    I feel like poetryworld is on the brink of a huge, positive upswing in community (maybe every group in the world is experiencing this, because of internetland). I am heartened by this. More and more, it will be important to support one another (and know that there is room for all kinds of poetry).

    For the last couple of years, I’ve been running a local reading series called Paging Columbus. It has been a joy and delight. The more I do this, the more it feeds me–it feels wonderful to be able to showcase writers of all kinds who live close by. I feel proud of Ohio writers!

    Going to readings, I often enjoy hearing other people’s voices. Sometimes I feel sick of my own voice (especially when I am editing or feel stuck!). Being quiet sometimes, and choosing not to focus on submissions but on reflection….this can be helpful for me, too.

    August 14, 2013
  • Good stuff, Jeannine. I especially like the tip about trying a new genre. I think there’s a place for anger if it’s a catalyst for change, but too often, people–myself included–tend to vent and move on. Writing reviews, running lit mags, workshopping with fellow writers, all the things you mention and more are ways to build a community, a safe place. And within that safe place, it’s ok to rage sometimes. But if you just hate-tweet on Monday and are back to link-bombing your own stuff on Tuesday, no one has your back, and no one wants to nurture your writing. Thanks for the reminder. 🙂

    August 14, 2013
  • What always inspires me, even when I’m feeling discouraged by po-world stuff, is reading amazing work by new poets or old favorites. I give myself permission to just read and enjoy, and it almost never fails to put the wind back in my sails.

    August 14, 2013
  • Human relations are always a challenge….enroll in my class at Cascadia Community College (Human Relatiolns) and know that I continue to learn from my students who grapple and keep on.

    Perhaps difficulties include knowing boundaries, who reallly owns words/ideas….and the ability to persist for the long haul.

    August 14, 2013
  • Thanks so much for the comments. I feel like this is a lesson I have to keep learning and re-learning. There is no success for any artist without moments of discouragement and disappointment on the way, so how we deal with that really makes the difference.

    August 16, 2013

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