Everyone has a story to tell; each one of us writes poetry – some, without even realising. That stream of consciousness that runs in our veins? It’s poetry waiting to be written. We believe in the power of words, and that power is what urged us set up PoetsIN.
It’s because of those inner streams, that we are bringing you all a regular interview feature, Writer Profiles. An interview with a writer. This week it’s Frank Tipa Jr, or as we like to call him, FrankieBoy.
Sit back, grab yourself a cuppa, and feast your eyes on the very first writer profile.
What is your relationship with words and how has that evolved?
I always liked creative writing as a child, but never really explored it until a couple of years ago. My mother was always a reader and always reinforced good grammar. I like to read, but unlike many writers, I’m not an avid reader or bookworm. I like to express my feelings, and most of my writing revolves around love. However, relationships have a way of evolving. My writing has certainly evolved with each personal relationship I’ve had. I’ve written some dark stuff when feeling low and even a piece that was my take on how one of my best friends must have been feeling prior to committing suicide.
How long have you been writing, what is your favourite style of writing and why?
I’ve been writing for a little over two years and I started writing free verse and poetry (my favorite) to express my feelings. I stumbled upon a Facebook Page two writers had started and it was my first outlet to test the waters. The positive feedback was great and I found that it’s not so much about what other people think about your writing as much as it’s about the ability to express yourself in a totally different way. Although, I must say, it’s really nice to get positive feedback.
Many of us within this group have experienced times where writing has helped us overcome times of pain, describe the first time you realised the true of power of words.
I guess there were two times that I realized the power of my written words. One was tied to the other. I was in a relationship with a woman who was overwhelmed by the emotion in my writing. She absolutely loved it and encouraged me to write. The fact that she was my inspiration at the time probably had something to do with how much she liked it, as well. However, later in our relationship there were two pieces I’d written that didn’t sit well with her. One spoke of her unfounded jealousy. The other was a fictional piece about sitting on death row awaiting execution. I based it around my feelings toward my ex-wife and there was a line that my girlfriend totally misinterpreted. That night, after she kind of freaked out, I wrote a piece called Ink & Quill. I’ve included it at the end of these questions.
Many writers love to read. What is your favourite book and why?
As I mentioned earlier, I’m not a bookworm and I honestly have spent most of my time reading the terrific writer’s works on this site and others. When I was reading regularly, I was a huge Stephen King fan and was devouring his books one after another. So, my answer would have to be “favorite series of books”. I absolutely loved Stephen King’s Dark Tower series.
Sum up yourself in a haiku or micropoem.
No airs to put on
Friend to one, friend to you all
I am here to love
We all have moments where we truly connect with words we read. What quote inspires you the most. Why?
My favorite quote is “Love conquers all”. I’ve always believed this and continue to believe it. Love, in all forms. The love of two people sharing life together. Genuine kindness. Love of nature. Love of the little things in life. When we forget about love, we lose ourselves. I’m blessed to have a terrific family who has communicated that message throughout my life. And although I’ve had my own share of difficult times in life, like my recent divorce after over 25 years of marriage, I will always believe that love conquers all.
Describe your writing process.
Typically, I get a thought (a line or two that comes to mind) and jot it down. It may not be at that moment, but I expand on that when I’m feeling driven to do so. Sometimes I don’t come back to those first lines until days, weeks, or even months later. Sometimes I never come back to a them at all. I will work it up and try to find a place where I feel a piece is finished. Often when I’m finished, I let it sit for a few days. Marinate, if you will. Then I’ll come back and make a few more edits.
Writer’s block, real or a myth?
REAL!! You can’t manufacture pieces. Sometimes it just doesn’t come. I’ve found that inspiration typically comes at the most inconvenient times. Reading other writers works is helpful, but each of us has our own unique style. One thing I’ve learned is that the important thing is to write, write, write! Churn out a bunch of crap if you have to, but eventually you will unearth a gem.
What is your favourite word?
That’s a tough one. We’re all people here who love words, so it’s really hard to just pick one. However, since my hand is being forced, I’ll have to say my favorite word is copacetic. Just something about it that I always liked.
Finish this sentence… Words are the epitome of…
…emotional expression.
Ink and Quill
She once inspired me
To scribe of love
Delusions of grandeur
Heaven above
Sunrises and sunsets
Walking hand in hand
Dreaming of a future
Together we’d planned
Not every mind
And heart though
Understands a writer and the
Inspirations that make words flow
So, now I hide
These things I write
As not to fill
Her fragile heart with fright
My heart, though
Sinks in sadness
For to share these words
I would with gladness
Only you, my fellow scribes
Will see these verses
For fear and suspicion
Are horrible curses
Nevermore will she know
How I’d fill her heart with prose
For now this book of love,
With words for her, I’ll close
Know that I shall
Love her still
But ne’re again
With ink and quill
That’s it for this interview. Stay tuned for more writer profiles, where we find out more about our fellow writers and what words mean to them.
Great interview. Especially enjoyed the haiku/micropoem.