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 Justin, or as he likes to call himself, Outspoken St. Monk.
Sit back, grab yourself a cuppa, and feast your eyes on this week’s writer profile.
1. What is your relationship with words and how has that evolved?
My relationship with words is like a holy matrimony.
I took to words in my late teens when I started to appreciate the art of arranging words in a particular order. I became enthralled with how language can influence ones perception in a magical way.
Growing up, I never paid much attention in English class, so now I feel like a youngster breaking into a forgotten world. I never thought I’d be so excited about learning the ins and outs of language and expression, but writing has become a personal oasis, a place of worship so to speak.
2. How long have you been writing, what is your favourite style of writing and why?
I’ve been writing for about 13 years now. For first few years I just wrote about my thoughts and feelings. I started using writing like a map and found it empowering knowing that I could write anything I wanted.
As for poetry, I wrote my first poem 8 years ago and slowly fell in love with everything about poetry. My favourite style of writing would have to be free verse. I’m not much for formal structure, I think it can dilute purity.
3. 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 don’t remember any exact moments that really stick out, I think over time that realization came later on. But what I do remember is when I first started writing I approached it like a storm, a madness stabbing paper. It was sad, violent, and hellish, but that’s what was inside of me at the time.
I feel writing saved my life a lot of trouble and grief because at times of need when I was alone, at least I had my pen and paper to scream with. I still have my up and downs, but writing has always supported a foundation for a healthy release I so desperately needed.
4. Many writers love to read. What is your favourite book and why?
My current favourite book is called The Eight Circuit Brain: Navigational Strategies for the Energetic Body by Antero Alli.
This book advances Antero’s first book, Angel Tech which tested and applied Dr. Timothy Leary’s 8-Circuit Brain model through a heavy mix of exercises, esoteric meditations, and rituals. Everything from the content to style of this book is right up my alley. It’s one of those books I could read a thousand times over and still pick up something new, that’s why I love it. It’s a great direct experience trampoline.
5. Sum up yourself in a haiku or micropoem.
A stranger to the norm
son of strange lights in the sky
on the 4th of July
I’m a nomad travelling thought
recording Stoned Monk’s
wildest dreams
so that I can remember
6. We all have moments where we truly connect with words we read. What quote inspires you the most. Why?
I love when that happens. Recently on facebook I came across a quote by Dion Fortune that really resonated with me:
“One cannot obtain mastery over the elements of the external universe without first mastering the elements within self. As above so below, as within so without. The one who becomes master of his own elemental nature has acquired the power to master his cosmos.”
It always feel great to come upon a quote that rings true. What this quote refers to is something I am well aware and struggle with. I think some of my poetry reflects this particular path I’m on. I like this quote because it sums up my headspace. Its a seamless reminder, a proper confirmation.
7. Describe your writing process.
Regarding poetry, my writing process is quite simple. When the beginning of a poem decides to show up, I immediately write it down then follow the lead until the poems completion.
When a line pops into my head it’s like a portal opens up and it’s my duty to further align words with the energy transfers I experience inside myself. I live for this, but at the same time, I try not to get in the way of the process. Ive learned it’s better to just let go, surrender and take notes. At times I may not pump out a poem for weeks on end and that can be scary, but at least I know when I do its worthy of something.
The most essential part of my writing process and perhaps the most difficult to convey would be the embodiment of words, becoming one with experience and language to feel directly. Not knowing what will come next can lead to an instantaneous kind of second awareness. There’s great mystery and excitement in following the beat of the unknown. It’s a state I wish to live in as much as possible.
8. Writer’s block, real or a myth?
Both, I think it’s as real as you make it to be.
9. What is your favourite word?
That’s hard to say, the most recent word I adore is ‘carousel.’ I’ve noticed that I’ve been using it a fair amount in different poems this past year. It’s not an everyday common word and maybe that’s why it stood out to me more than others. I find it to be a great Poetic muse, even just saying the word carousel reveals something deep and beautiful in my world.
10. Finish this sentence… Words are the epitome of… release.
That’s all for this week, but be sure to follow The Outspoken one on his Facebook Page by clicking here. Huge thanks for the interview!
My poetry-writing process is exactly the same. The first line comes to me and i follow it until the poem is finished, too. Perfectly said.