I appreciated the comments about some of my poetry rejected by a periodical yesterday. Several said that they appreciated the naturalness of the voice. And that is one of the things I strive for--to rid myself of artifice, as a poet and person. It's sometimes not easy to do that in the USA.

This is what I tell publishers and agents that I strive for in my aesthetic: clarity (or simplicity) plus depth. I am very impressed with childrens' poetry because it is more likely to retain that quality of naturaleness. I think that to be a poet or artist you have to be in touch with that "inner child."

However, poetry does explore regions of the mind that can seem to be inexplicable, mysterious, and complex. But to me, the trick is to reveal the underlying unity of the vision and experience.

As a poet, you do permit the mind to wander into strange regions, the kind of places that you experience in dreams.

I will always be a poet. It is at the heart of me. I will always find ways to share it with others, through open mics or publication. I believe in my work, even after being hit with a series of rejections from publishers and agents. I keep working at it, knowing that nothing you write is set in stone and there is always room for improvement.

Having the opportunity to share my work through OS has been invaluable. Many creative folks here with interesting things to say. Creative folks need a community, whether it be online or in person. I seek both, and that's why I have begun to attend an open mic every Wednesday to share my poetry and songs. Also why I have begun to collaborate with another songwriter...

***

 Listening to When I See You Smile...Such a great song, preceded by Tangled Up in You, another great one. Oh, music keeps my soul alive!

Bad English and Howie Day, great great job...