I recently interviewed with Live Unchained, a blogozine dedicated to highlighting the artistic, professional and community efforts of women across the African diaspora. They hit me with some interesting questions. I wanted to share a few of my favorites. To read the entire interview, visit Live Unchained Blogozine.
In addition to poems, Write to the Core has writing prompts for self-reflection that makes it feel like a life-changing personal reflection class. Why did you choose that approach?
I wanted to include the reader by adding the prompts so they could interact with the poetry. Critical thinking is a must in this age of mass media. I don’t want people walking away from my work trying to dissect my words; I want them to connect with them.
Many prompts concerned personal development, but some also addressed politics. Like prompt #9: “Classism is a big problem in American society. How do you feel about the separation of classes? Do we have a system set up that works to keep the privileged rich as the underprivileged get poorer?” How would you answer them for yourself?
I don’t believe in politics, I believe in people. Most political positions are about as useless as office managers. If you remove these people from power, I would hope that people would be able to govern themselves. Essentially, I ask these questions to challenge people to think about whether the system is working for or against us. What people do with the thoughts is up to them, but I hope for all of us to become more proactive.
Still, I don’t believe, I know the system is designed that way. In knowing that, I encourage people to become more self-reliant, support independent business, embrace the idea of cooperative economics and stop falling into the traps of consumerism. I don’t think I have an artistic responsibility to highlight or speak on these things–it’s my responsibility as a citizen. More of us should be having these conversations.
If you could make love to any artist from history who would it be?
I’ve played these sessions over and again in my head so it’s hard to choose just one. I have a slutty imagination.
I have a Jean-Michel Basquiat fantasy. He seemed to have a muted sexual energy that probably translates into a great deal of passion. I also have a Tupac fantasy. He was both rugged and sensitive. That contrast is attractive. Then there’s Bob Marley and the beautiful Marvin Gaye.
What does Living Unchained mean to you?
Living Unchained means living without constraints and making your own rules. It means defining success for yourself and refusing to bend to the expectations of others. It means not conforming to commercial ideals and honoring traditions in a way that suits the lifestyle you desire.
Showing posts with label writing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label writing. Show all posts
The Freedom of Creation.
After I released my debut poetry collection, I received a motivating amount of support and praise from friends and strangers. The love was beautiful, and it inspired me to start work on my second collection. I brainstormed poems and wrote pages of pieces that wound up in the recycling bin. I became so consumed with the idea of topping myself and meeting everyone's expectations - that the act of writing poetry felt more like work. The creative process stopped feeling genuine as I gathered poems in preparation for another book. I never took into account that the first collection was the product of years of writing. Poetry was a passion and a creative outlet - never a job. The pieces compiled for [If] Life's Rotten, Write to the Core were never written for the purpose of allowing the public to read. Publishing was an act of faith and grew out of the belief that I had something important to share. The entire process was fully organic - and it felt good.
Tonight, I decided to step outside of my creative comfort zone and paint. It was so therapeutic to create something without the burden of expectations. This is what I need poetry to feel like - pure freedom. This is my goal for 2011.
Here's a sneak peek of the piece. It's nothing amazing, I assure you. I used acrylics on a piece of wood that I found near the trashcan in my subdivision. I titled it 'Defying Expectations.'
Tonight, I decided to step outside of my creative comfort zone and paint. It was so therapeutic to create something without the burden of expectations. This is what I need poetry to feel like - pure freedom. This is my goal for 2011.
Here's a sneak peek of the piece. It's nothing amazing, I assure you. I used acrylics on a piece of wood that I found near the trashcan in my subdivision. I titled it 'Defying Expectations.'
Loving an Artist.
As a writer, it so happens that the energy I attract is often that of fellow artists. I've dated and shared time with many known and lesser-known creatives. There has always been a beautiful tug-of-war between us, passion, time and those productive, creative moments. Two artists coming together can produce an inspiring and invigorating connection. Loving an artist is electric.
There are times where my only desire is to focus on a piece and zone out. It takes an understanding person to allow an artist their space when it's necessary to transcend the 'now'. It's very rare that I connect with someone without a creative lifestyle who doesn't feel neglected when I'm moved to isolate myself. Loving an artist takes patience.
Artists are full of ego and doubt. Practicing a gift and honing a talent requires the confidence that you have a unique ability. However, most artists are always engaged in the quest towards untouchable perfection. One thing I've learned about myself (as I've accepted myself as a writer), is that in spite of my ego, I need support. Loving an artist requires you to be their #1 fan.
Being an artist comes with the burden of questioning whether you're fulfilling your purpose. Being an artist means that struggle may be inevitable. Being an artist means dealing with rejection and criticism. Loving an artist means dealing with all of these heartaches with grace and empathy.
There are times where my only desire is to focus on a piece and zone out. It takes an understanding person to allow an artist their space when it's necessary to transcend the 'now'. It's very rare that I connect with someone without a creative lifestyle who doesn't feel neglected when I'm moved to isolate myself. Loving an artist takes patience.
Artists are full of ego and doubt. Practicing a gift and honing a talent requires the confidence that you have a unique ability. However, most artists are always engaged in the quest towards untouchable perfection. One thing I've learned about myself (as I've accepted myself as a writer), is that in spite of my ego, I need support. Loving an artist requires you to be their #1 fan.
Being an artist comes with the burden of questioning whether you're fulfilling your purpose. Being an artist means that struggle may be inevitable. Being an artist means dealing with rejection and criticism. Loving an artist means dealing with all of these heartaches with grace and empathy.
A Treasure Chest of Inspiration
Next to my bed lies a small box that I found at Goodwill some moons ago. It became home to little trinkets, matches, incense cones, peppermints and scraps of paper that I'd doodled ideas on. This weekend, as I'm organizing my life, I decided to free my ideas and transfer them onto my computer so I can build on the ones that are worthy. Like looking into a journal, I'm always surprised by my own brainstorming.
I've said before that bad ideas should be trashed, but I encourage artists to resist abandoning creative ideas that have potential - even if they seem to be wondering along the road to nowhere. Those little doodles, sketches and notes could lead to marvelous pieces - pieces that may take you places as you channel your creative energy.
In my box there were partial poems and the first page of a promising short story. It feels good to have a place where you can go for instant inspiration. I hope that my fellow artists have a few places of their own.
Where's yours?
I've said before that bad ideas should be trashed, but I encourage artists to resist abandoning creative ideas that have potential - even if they seem to be wondering along the road to nowhere. Those little doodles, sketches and notes could lead to marvelous pieces - pieces that may take you places as you channel your creative energy.
In my box there were partial poems and the first page of a promising short story. It feels good to have a place where you can go for instant inspiration. I hope that my fellow artists have a few places of their own.
Where's yours?
Reflecting on Self
I've been doing much reflection lately. Looking inward. Staring in the metaphorical mirror. In doing this, I've started analyzing my purpose. More specifically, my purpose as a writer. When it comes to my craft, there are several projects I'm taking on at any given time: Children's literature. Poetry. Fictional novels. Memoirs. Freelancing for nonprofits.I'm not of the mind that all of these things can't be accomplished, but in knowing my purpose as an artist, I can tie all of these things together into some coherent collection that represents who I am as I writer and the reason I create.
I'm reminded of a quote by Richard R. Grant, “The value of identity of course is that so often with it comes purpose.”
Knowing your purpose runs parallel to knowing yourself. I can't say which comes first, but it's quite impossible to achieve one without the other. Introspection is twofold. It's also an ongoing process as we manage to evolve in spite of ourselves. And in growing, I've come to realize that my purpose also evolves. What I was supposed to do this year may not be in line with what I'm supposed to do in following years. As spiritual beings, we have to fall in line where we're needed and use our talents accordingly. Can't get shook up by the shake up. Peace.
Life Lessons that You Shouldn't Apply to Writing.
The beautiful thing about writing is having the freedom to take risks, enjoy the luxury of having no boundaries and as an art, it's a place where you can ignore all basic rhetoric of "life lessons," such as:
Test the water before jumping in. In going about our day to day, it's not always wise to act on impulse. Many scenarios involve a process of critical thinking so we can come out of the the situation victorious. For writing, the opposite applies. It's a must that you jump in. Over-thinking the writing process can stifle your creativity. Allowing words to flow as they come to you in the absence of your own criticism will allow you to produce pieces that may have never made it to paper. Refuse to engage in the tedium of editing while you should be maximizing your creative talent.
Share. We've all heard this since preschool. Share your toys. Share your feelings. We're encouraged to share everything from material possessions to being open about our emotional disposition. It's healthy. It's polite. But in art, sharing isn't always necessary. Sometimes your work never turns into a finished product, but serves as a solid foundation for greater pieces. There's nothing wrong with keeping your writer's notebook and/or sketchbook private. I get completely vexed when people don't understand when I'm not open to divulging everything I write. [No, I'm not opposed to discussing drafts.]
Follow Through. It's not always a bad idea to be a quitter. I'm confused by artists who think they have to absolutely commit to a piece that they've started. Creating any type of art in the absence of inspiration is called 'work.' When creating starts to feel like work, I ditch it. When I'm no longer moved by a character, I write them out. When I begin a poem that isn't flowing naturally, I scratch it. If I torment myself with trying to marry something I've started, I cheat myself out of creative time that could have been spent more productively.
Art is the ultimate expression of freedom. There are no laws, no rules, no rigid expectations.
Test the water before jumping in. In going about our day to day, it's not always wise to act on impulse. Many scenarios involve a process of critical thinking so we can come out of the the situation victorious. For writing, the opposite applies. It's a must that you jump in. Over-thinking the writing process can stifle your creativity. Allowing words to flow as they come to you in the absence of your own criticism will allow you to produce pieces that may have never made it to paper. Refuse to engage in the tedium of editing while you should be maximizing your creative talent.
Share. We've all heard this since preschool. Share your toys. Share your feelings. We're encouraged to share everything from material possessions to being open about our emotional disposition. It's healthy. It's polite. But in art, sharing isn't always necessary. Sometimes your work never turns into a finished product, but serves as a solid foundation for greater pieces. There's nothing wrong with keeping your writer's notebook and/or sketchbook private. I get completely vexed when people don't understand when I'm not open to divulging everything I write. [No, I'm not opposed to discussing drafts.]
Follow Through. It's not always a bad idea to be a quitter. I'm confused by artists who think they have to absolutely commit to a piece that they've started. Creating any type of art in the absence of inspiration is called 'work.' When creating starts to feel like work, I ditch it. When I'm no longer moved by a character, I write them out. When I begin a poem that isn't flowing naturally, I scratch it. If I torment myself with trying to marry something I've started, I cheat myself out of creative time that could have been spent more productively.
Art is the ultimate expression of freedom. There are no laws, no rules, no rigid expectations.
13 Phrases #7: Rufio Jones
Here we go again. For this installment of 13 Phrases, I approached a friend, Emcee and writer, Rufio Jones of Detroit Cydi. Enjoy.
1. By day, I am a fairly ordinary guy with extraordinary powers. Namely the abilities to read betwixt the lines, listen, and care about things without being bothered by what others think.
2. I write best when I lay down to sleep but before I am successful. It's when I have no outside influences (like television or the internet) and I'm at my calmest. Words begin to pour in and don't allow me to comfortably stare at my eyelids. So I try and keep a writing utensil nearby.
3. When I find it difficult to complete a piece, I don't worry about it. I've found if I spend too much time on something, I begin to dwell. So I come back to it when I feel ready.
4. Three things that help me recover from Writer’s Block are doing something fun, watching something of the same subject matter I'm writing about, and strip clubs. They all help stimulate the brain (excuse any plausible double entendre).
5. I started writing because I loved words and how they sound together and how some words sound better together than others causing a hunt for Thesaurus.
6. I continued to write because I realized I had the ability to put those words together myself that I felt sounded so good in groups. There was no reason to rely on others to do what I was good at (if you noticed I ended my sentence with a preposition... shutup).
7. I will always write because there will ALWAYS be something to write about. There is a new subject matter every second.
8. If I weren’t a writer, I would probably be a gourmet cook in The Land of Liars and Charlatans.
9. The Authors who influence and inspire my work are Snoop Dogg and Too Short... seriously. Together they showed me how to write with a smooth flow, quickly tell an engaging story, and be funny while doing it.
10. The most important goal I have as a writer is to keep writing what entertains me. I am a fan of writing before being a writer. So if I create something that emotes what I intended in me, I know it will go over well.
11. People who read my work are most likely to snicker. I look at the world a LOT differently than most people. That translates into the things I write. So, because I attack a subject from a strange angle, people are likely to find it hilarious.
12. My most significant piece to date is the one I haven't written yet. I honestly never believe I can write something as good as what I did prior. Low and behold, I shock myself each time.
13. There’s nothing more important than not dying. The longer I stay alive, the more mistakes I can see corrected, lives can be changed, and goals attained. So I will not be biting any bullets or kicking any buckets for a nice while.
1. By day, I am a fairly ordinary guy with extraordinary powers. Namely the abilities to read betwixt the lines, listen, and care about things without being bothered by what others think.2. I write best when I lay down to sleep but before I am successful. It's when I have no outside influences (like television or the internet) and I'm at my calmest. Words begin to pour in and don't allow me to comfortably stare at my eyelids. So I try and keep a writing utensil nearby.
3. When I find it difficult to complete a piece, I don't worry about it. I've found if I spend too much time on something, I begin to dwell. So I come back to it when I feel ready.
4. Three things that help me recover from Writer’s Block are doing something fun, watching something of the same subject matter I'm writing about, and strip clubs. They all help stimulate the brain (excuse any plausible double entendre).
5. I started writing because I loved words and how they sound together and how some words sound better together than others causing a hunt for Thesaurus.
6. I continued to write because I realized I had the ability to put those words together myself that I felt sounded so good in groups. There was no reason to rely on others to do what I was good at (if you noticed I ended my sentence with a preposition... shutup).
7. I will always write because there will ALWAYS be something to write about. There is a new subject matter every second.
8. If I weren’t a writer, I would probably be a gourmet cook in The Land of Liars and Charlatans.
9. The Authors who influence and inspire my work are Snoop Dogg and Too Short... seriously. Together they showed me how to write with a smooth flow, quickly tell an engaging story, and be funny while doing it.
10. The most important goal I have as a writer is to keep writing what entertains me. I am a fan of writing before being a writer. So if I create something that emotes what I intended in me, I know it will go over well.
11. People who read my work are most likely to snicker. I look at the world a LOT differently than most people. That translates into the things I write. So, because I attack a subject from a strange angle, people are likely to find it hilarious.
12. My most significant piece to date is the one I haven't written yet. I honestly never believe I can write something as good as what I did prior. Low and behold, I shock myself each time.
13. There’s nothing more important than not dying. The longer I stay alive, the more mistakes I can see corrected, lives can be changed, and goals attained. So I will not be biting any bullets or kicking any buckets for a nice while.
Contact Rufio Jones:
Email: hobbskha@gmail.com
Website: http://detroitcydi.com/
Buy: http://detroitcydi.bandcamp.com/
Email: hobbskha@gmail.com
Website: http://detroitcydi.com/
Buy: http://detroitcydi.bandcamp.com/
Turning Distractions into Writing Material.
It's 8pm on a Wednesday and I'm determined to stay at home. I have a story idea in my head, begging to be outlined. The first paragraph is already falling from my lips. I just need for my fingertips to cooperate. Then, the phone rings. I ignore it. A text alert follows. "Are we still going out tonight?" Why yes. I'd almost forgotten the commitment I made to my social circle. Not that I have to keep it. After all, planning is for stiff people who don't sway outside of their calendars. I move with the flow of my desires. My desire is to get out of the house, write nothing and escape the four walls of my peaceful sanctuary.
I get dressed quickly and fly down 75 to the tunes of Little Dragon, Gucci Mane and Drake. The roads are smooth and a breeze sneaks through my slightly-cracked window.
This all may appear anti-productive. There was a time I would have agreed.
James Norman Hall once said that "Loafing is the most productive part of a writer's life."
Some of my best writing material comes to me when I've stepped away from the process. Conversations with friends, rubbish on the radio, lyrics and people watching are all contributors to my fiction and poetry. Distracting myself with the world has become ritual in my writing process. While I also find comfort and a mass of creativity during a solitary retreat, I welcome the inspiration that reality offers (most times in overwhelming amounts).
The most important thing is to not get swept away in distractions, keep my third eye open and use my experiences to be a better artist.
I get dressed quickly and fly down 75 to the tunes of Little Dragon, Gucci Mane and Drake. The roads are smooth and a breeze sneaks through my slightly-cracked window.
This all may appear anti-productive. There was a time I would have agreed.
James Norman Hall once said that "Loafing is the most productive part of a writer's life."
Some of my best writing material comes to me when I've stepped away from the process. Conversations with friends, rubbish on the radio, lyrics and people watching are all contributors to my fiction and poetry. Distracting myself with the world has become ritual in my writing process. While I also find comfort and a mass of creativity during a solitary retreat, I welcome the inspiration that reality offers (most times in overwhelming amounts).
The most important thing is to not get swept away in distractions, keep my third eye open and use my experiences to be a better artist.
The Whimsical World of Children's Literature
I’ve always been a fan of children’s literature, enjoying the words and lessons of Shel Silverstein and Dr. Seuss. Some of my favorite stories include Hot Day on Abbott Avenue, The Enemy and Where the Wild Things Are. Most recently, I’ve added Yesterday I Had the Blues to my hefty list. It’s a strange realization that it took me so long to consider writing for children, given that it’s the perfect hybrid of my day job as an educator and my passion as a writer.
I’m glad to say that I’ve changed that, penning my first picture book, titled Mya J.’s Kinky, Curly Crown. When I first took on the task, I wasn’t fully prepared for the adventure. I’d underestimated the talent and energy I’d have to pour into writing a book for children. And while I already had an appreciation for authors such as Margaret Wise Brown, Maurice Sendak and Varda Aardema, I now have a new respect for their work and the gifts they create for bookshelves and little hands. I only hope that one day I can join the ranks of those boasting Coretta Scott King and Ezra Jack Keats Book Awards.
Adding children’s books to my repertoire is simultaneously exciting and daunting. While I don’t want to take on too much as a creative writer, I don’t want to limit my abilities to a few genres. I’m glad to say that whether I’m in the mode of a poetess, novelist, freelancer or children’s author, I’m writing. That’s the beauty of it all.
I’m glad to say that I’ve changed that, penning my first picture book, titled Mya J.’s Kinky, Curly Crown. When I first took on the task, I wasn’t fully prepared for the adventure. I’d underestimated the talent and energy I’d have to pour into writing a book for children. And while I already had an appreciation for authors such as Margaret Wise Brown, Maurice Sendak and Varda Aardema, I now have a new respect for their work and the gifts they create for bookshelves and little hands. I only hope that one day I can join the ranks of those boasting Coretta Scott King and Ezra Jack Keats Book Awards.
Adding children’s books to my repertoire is simultaneously exciting and daunting. While I don’t want to take on too much as a creative writer, I don’t want to limit my abilities to a few genres. I’m glad to say that whether I’m in the mode of a poetess, novelist, freelancer or children’s author, I’m writing. That’s the beauty of it all.
13 Phrases #6: Jovonna Rodriguez
1. By day, I slay dragons: Social justice monsters that hold our children captive to systematic educational digressions. I teach that knowledge is deeper than my classroom and the hour I see my students.2. I write best when the universe aligns and moves me.
3. When I find it difficult to complete a piece, I step back, light some incense, put on Erykah, grab some wine, take a walk, examine the way trees move so effortlessly and refocus. Some things are just for reflection, not completion.
4. Something that helps me recover from Writer's Block (has) been my exploration of its purpose and meaning. The simple absence of one thing opens door for another. Writer’s block is necessary for growth.
5. I starting writing because my veins burned, my heart yearns, my fingertips glide connecting my soul to each letter. I write to stay alive.
7. I will always write because it’s destined. And until movement is snatched, words no longer can be spoken, thought formed, I will always attempt to create.
8. If I weren't a writer, I would be a conversationalist, vocally parading the minds of others still with my words.
9. The authors who influence and inspire my work are… Honestly, everything I read, experience, and connect with influences my writings. Most importantly: Audre Lorde, bell hooks, Khalil Gibran, Adele, Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, Saul Williams.
10. The most important goal I have as a writer is to not let the limits of the world bind my words, and yet instead strengthen my freedom.
11. People who read my work are most likely trying to uncover a piece of me, but actually end up uncovering a piece of themselves.
12. My most significant piece to date is a mystery. What is significance… each piece has been great for that moment in time, for my release, your absorption, for the point of existing.
13. There is nothing more important than reflection, humility, service, growth, loyalty, and respect. Know thy self, love thy self!
A Men
Confused
I come to you in question
In theory
In practice
Wishing for clarification
Hoping for understanding
Needing balance
How do I give
All to you
How do I let go
And when blessings come
How do I know
That line between
Appreciation
Thankfulness
Humility
Greed
And lust.
How do I not confuse love with lusting more?
Desire with greed?
Where do I find balance?
In the simplest form
Lead me to clarity.
And strengthen me to trust my internal desires and convictions.
Knowing my inner guide is you.
Leading my journey
Stumbling, yet I walk
Arriving late, though I make my destination.
Time does not detour me.
Connect my desires with your lead.
Calm me.
Be my sight.
While I be of you.
How do I give in
Without being weak?
Where does the line
Between vulnerability and strength meet?
Contact Jovonna Rodriguez:
Email: joskidiesel@yahoo.com
Blog: www.joskidiesel.blogspot.com
Email: joskidiesel@yahoo.com
Blog: www.joskidiesel.blogspot.com
The Creative Misfire of 2009
One of my biggest offenses as a writer in '09 (and before), was over-researching journals and over-thinking writing projects. I created unnecessary stress by constantly considering what I should write to fit the criteria and expectations of editors. I spent more time brainstorming topics, planning execution and reading publications than I did writing. Deplorable. In spite of all the time I spent defining myself as an artist, I approached my art as a science and undervalued my spirit of creativity. Art is not science. Art is the expression of artists' observation and imagination.
From here, I'm dedicated to writing on the subjects that move me and penning pieces that I deem relevant and worthy. I'm staying prayerful that following my heart will attract the suiters who find monetary value in my work. But writing for the purpose of selling myself has only left spaces that could have been filled with my art. No more writing for the wrong purpose.
Now, by no means am I claiming that '09 was a non-productive year. I've written a significant number of poems for my second collection, got knee-deep into the revision of my first novel, and started the second. From the standpoint of marketing and promotions, I've also made leeway by going somewhat hard. However, I've gotta go harder.
It's been a good year of growth, realizations and creative frustration. No regrets. But it's time to correct my mistakes and create room for new ones.
From here, I'm dedicated to writing on the subjects that move me and penning pieces that I deem relevant and worthy. I'm staying prayerful that following my heart will attract the suiters who find monetary value in my work. But writing for the purpose of selling myself has only left spaces that could have been filled with my art. No more writing for the wrong purpose.
Now, by no means am I claiming that '09 was a non-productive year. I've written a significant number of poems for my second collection, got knee-deep into the revision of my first novel, and started the second. From the standpoint of marketing and promotions, I've also made leeway by going somewhat hard. However, I've gotta go harder.
It's been a good year of growth, realizations and creative frustration. No regrets. But it's time to correct my mistakes and create room for new ones.
Microjournaling FTW
I've decided to modify the Twitter phenomena and apply it to my own journaling habits. I'm very guilty of taking my thoughts and overexposing myself on paper. Now, obviously I'm free to be as vulgar and tactless as I please when I'm writing for myself, but as I grow, looking back, there are times when I don't recognize myself. I'm starting to take a different approach to my diary writing by jotting quick summaries of my thoughts of the moment. No more analyzing myself with drawn out passages of chatter. Twitter's got it right, you can say plenty in 160 characters or less. This may not work for everyone, but I've found that the result is a string of decent to excellent writing prompts that can be used for later. I'm still writing to the core, but I'm documenting the flesh of the matter. I started yesterday. I'll share a few ;-)
12.15.09
9am: Wishing I woke up in a different time zone.
9:45am: I should be writing the day away in some isolated room with a fireplace and a teapot.
11:00am: By coming in contact with so many souls, I'm sure to have several monumental heartbreaks.
11:20am: I'm writing a poem at work. I love stealing by supervisor's time like she steals by skills by underpaying me.
1:05pm: I miss the sun. Whoever stole the sky's shine, should return it... stat.
(I'm sure that two poems will come of these.)
12.15.09
9am: Wishing I woke up in a different time zone.
9:45am: I should be writing the day away in some isolated room with a fireplace and a teapot.
11:00am: By coming in contact with so many souls, I'm sure to have several monumental heartbreaks.
11:20am: I'm writing a poem at work. I love stealing by supervisor's time like she steals by skills by underpaying me.
1:05pm: I miss the sun. Whoever stole the sky's shine, should return it... stat.
(I'm sure that two poems will come of these.)
A Moment for Poetry: Bliss
Bliss
Dancing on golden,
Tabletop clouds, bright
Skin reflecting metallic sunrays
Dodging lightening
Bolts, bobbing to the beat
Of thunder
Jumping over trees that magically
Sprout from red soil, watching
Money burn in flames
That reach the sky
Ripping nations at the seam
Freeing the land
Securing oneness
Copyright Ain HD ©2009
Dancing on golden,
Tabletop clouds, bright
Skin reflecting metallic sunrays
Dodging lightening
Bolts, bobbing to the beat
Of thunder
Jumping over trees that magically
Sprout from red soil, watching
Money burn in flames
That reach the sky
Ripping nations at the seam
Freeing the land
Securing oneness
Copyright Ain HD ©2009
Minor Updates from a Formerly Missing Blogger.
I haven't blogged in over three weeks. Fortunately, I can say that even while internet-less for the past two of those blogless weeks, I've been productive. I've been consistently working on the revision of my first novel, A Teaspoon of Fiction, making a literary transition from chick-lit to mainstream fiction with some experimental elements. I've also been brainstorming, writing and editing pieces for my second collection of poetry, tentatively titled [If] Life's Rotten, Write to the Core Pt. 2. Aside from personal writing projects and continuing my freelance work with organizations such as The United Sisters Mentoring Program, I've teamed up with my friend and passionate photographer, TT Coles. We'll be creating a wonderful collab of photos and poetry in respect to the wide topic of Hip Hop. I wish I could let you all in on more but my creative conscience has sworn me to secrecy.
That's it in a nutshell. I'll be back to blogging regularly soon. I'm sure I've been missed.
Ciao!
That's it in a nutshell. I'll be back to blogging regularly soon. I'm sure I've been missed.
Ciao!
Work vs. Passion
[Dear employer, I hope you're reading this blog]
Note: I almost titled this post, "Work vs. Slavery." But out of respect to my ancestors and the millions around the globe who are still working for next to nothing in abusive, deplorable conditions, I decided against it.
However, each time I leave the comfort of my own home to make it possible for someone else to make more money off of my back than I'm making myself, I can only compare my place of employment to a plantation. A less binding one of course, but one that I've been unwilling to escape because of the current economy, a shortage of "better" jobs, and my own desire to live a certain way. I'm already a minimalist for the most part. I could opt for less, but I'd still have to work to get it.
So, I have three choices:
1. Live off the land.
2. Work forever and hope to rise up the chain.
3. Emancipate myself through my own creativity and diligence.
Bingo! Number three is the only option for me. The second option may be appealing. I could certainly stick it out and eventually buy my freedom via a superb retirement plan. At the end of the day, until this writing career pops off properly, I'll have to settle for a job. Like most creatives, I work day in and day out, hustling for ends and struggling to maintain the balance of work vs. passion.
Passion as a writer, fine artist, dancer, etc. is essential. I'm beginning to take a more passionate approach to my work even though a more lackadaisical approach has kept me from giving too much of myself away in the spirit of my craft. What I've realized is that I AM my craft. When people ask me what I do, I always reply "I'm a writer." My job is secondary and irrelevant, a mere means to an end. So once upon a time while I was looking for a career path with the zeal of a recent graduate, I was ignoring the fact that I could and should be profiting from my passion, not work. And writing has been far from work, even when I'm mulling over a press release or bio, I pour my creativity into each project I take on without the hassle of being told what to do or how to do it. Love it.
Today, I'm declaring psychological emancipation from work and chaining myself to my passion (until I can physically peel myself away from the traditional job force). No more will I go above and beyond for people who don't value my worth. I will write every free moment I have on the clock. I will surrender my care and concern for making money their way and focus on building my future wealth. Done.
Note: I almost titled this post, "Work vs. Slavery." But out of respect to my ancestors and the millions around the globe who are still working for next to nothing in abusive, deplorable conditions, I decided against it.
However, each time I leave the comfort of my own home to make it possible for someone else to make more money off of my back than I'm making myself, I can only compare my place of employment to a plantation. A less binding one of course, but one that I've been unwilling to escape because of the current economy, a shortage of "better" jobs, and my own desire to live a certain way. I'm already a minimalist for the most part. I could opt for less, but I'd still have to work to get it.
So, I have three choices:
1. Live off the land.
2. Work forever and hope to rise up the chain.
3. Emancipate myself through my own creativity and diligence.
Bingo! Number three is the only option for me. The second option may be appealing. I could certainly stick it out and eventually buy my freedom via a superb retirement plan. At the end of the day, until this writing career pops off properly, I'll have to settle for a job. Like most creatives, I work day in and day out, hustling for ends and struggling to maintain the balance of work vs. passion.
Passion as a writer, fine artist, dancer, etc. is essential. I'm beginning to take a more passionate approach to my work even though a more lackadaisical approach has kept me from giving too much of myself away in the spirit of my craft. What I've realized is that I AM my craft. When people ask me what I do, I always reply "I'm a writer." My job is secondary and irrelevant, a mere means to an end. So once upon a time while I was looking for a career path with the zeal of a recent graduate, I was ignoring the fact that I could and should be profiting from my passion, not work. And writing has been far from work, even when I'm mulling over a press release or bio, I pour my creativity into each project I take on without the hassle of being told what to do or how to do it. Love it.
Today, I'm declaring psychological emancipation from work and chaining myself to my passion (until I can physically peel myself away from the traditional job force). No more will I go above and beyond for people who don't value my worth. I will write every free moment I have on the clock. I will surrender my care and concern for making money their way and focus on building my future wealth. Done.
When All Else Fails: Revise.
Writers and other creative people are never completely satisfied with their own work. It takes a lot of courage to step away from a piece and deem it worthy of being presented to the masses. So, when I walked away from my first novel, A Teaspoon of Fiction, I was quite proud of myself. However, I recently gave my work of art another once over, and realized that it wasn't a book that I would boast on my bookshelf. Back at square one, and I'm learning that it takes even more courage to pick up a piece that was once considered complete.
A Teaspoon of Fiction was supposed to be my golden ticket into the exciting world of publishing. I'd written what I thought was a killer query letter, compiled my list of relevant agents, and shot out my call for a representative. I took the rejection letters in stride and blamed the undesirable responses on the failing economy. Then the inevitable occurred: I realized that the manuscript I penned was simply not up to par.
Now, I'm not only undertaking the task of writing novel #2, but completely revising #1.
As a word to fellow writers, please don't fear multiple revisions and edits. While it's a challenge to lay down a piece, it's also very difficult to pick it up again. It's very easy to give up on a project when it's not shaping up to what you want it to be. However, I've concluded that a piece worth starting is a piece worth completing.
Wish me luck!
A Teaspoon of Fiction was supposed to be my golden ticket into the exciting world of publishing. I'd written what I thought was a killer query letter, compiled my list of relevant agents, and shot out my call for a representative. I took the rejection letters in stride and blamed the undesirable responses on the failing economy. Then the inevitable occurred: I realized that the manuscript I penned was simply not up to par.
Now, I'm not only undertaking the task of writing novel #2, but completely revising #1.
As a word to fellow writers, please don't fear multiple revisions and edits. While it's a challenge to lay down a piece, it's also very difficult to pick it up again. It's very easy to give up on a project when it's not shaping up to what you want it to be. However, I've concluded that a piece worth starting is a piece worth completing.
Wish me luck!
Five Reasons to Journal.
Confession: I toss journals into the recycling bin on a yearly basis. I have never been able to maintain a journal. Why? I am totally anal about handwriting. I tried to keep journal entries in Word, but it wasn't the same. There is nothing comparable to journaling with nothing but a pen, a blank page and your own thoughts.
I'm giving it another go.
I've covered five pages of a new journal that I vow to never throw away. My first entry was April 16th, so it's clear that I've been slacking. However, I'm gearing up to be in full recording mode. I'm in a major transition mode and I'm not sure it would be appropriate to neglect penning the details.
In an effort to stay motivated, I wanted to share five reasons to keep a journal:
1. It gives you an opportunity to self-reflect. It's in our nature to seek advice from elders and people with shared experiences. However, many of us have been blessed with good conscience. We generally ask for advice to simply confirm what we already know is right. Journaling really helps you to focus in on your own ideas and beliefs without those outside influences.
2. Writing is a great form of expression, which can heal you. In many cases, writing is a great way to vent. Sometimes, when I'm upset, I tend to write letters to the person my anger is directed towards. In most cases, they never see it. By the time I'm done, the moment has passed.
3. Your story is important. Keeping a photo album is one thing, but I've found that keeping a journal is the best way to record those special moments you don't want to forget. If you hang on long enough, you can share these moments with your children and their children.
4. It helps you to record your own growth. There's nothing better than reading an old journal entry and wondering what the hell you were thinking. Going through an old stack of entries that didn't make the garbage pile, I realized how much I'd grown, and that was beautiful.
5. Flex your writing/creative muscles. When I'm not working on a creative piece (ex. my novel, a poem or article), I find that journaling gives me an opportunity to still play with language and frolic with words. In fact, many of my pieces are direct results of a topic I've journaled about.
I'm giving it another go.
I've covered five pages of a new journal that I vow to never throw away. My first entry was April 16th, so it's clear that I've been slacking. However, I'm gearing up to be in full recording mode. I'm in a major transition mode and I'm not sure it would be appropriate to neglect penning the details.
In an effort to stay motivated, I wanted to share five reasons to keep a journal:
1. It gives you an opportunity to self-reflect. It's in our nature to seek advice from elders and people with shared experiences. However, many of us have been blessed with good conscience. We generally ask for advice to simply confirm what we already know is right. Journaling really helps you to focus in on your own ideas and beliefs without those outside influences.
2. Writing is a great form of expression, which can heal you. In many cases, writing is a great way to vent. Sometimes, when I'm upset, I tend to write letters to the person my anger is directed towards. In most cases, they never see it. By the time I'm done, the moment has passed.
3. Your story is important. Keeping a photo album is one thing, but I've found that keeping a journal is the best way to record those special moments you don't want to forget. If you hang on long enough, you can share these moments with your children and their children.
4. It helps you to record your own growth. There's nothing better than reading an old journal entry and wondering what the hell you were thinking. Going through an old stack of entries that didn't make the garbage pile, I realized how much I'd grown, and that was beautiful.
5. Flex your writing/creative muscles. When I'm not working on a creative piece (ex. my novel, a poem or article), I find that journaling gives me an opportunity to still play with language and frolic with words. In fact, many of my pieces are direct results of a topic I've journaled about.
Writing in Web 2.0
As a writer, I've grown comfortable relying in the basic materials: pen, pad, and Microsoft Word. Now, with Twitter, the ever-growing blogosphere and other social networking sites, the Web has become not only a place where artists can showcase their work, but actually connect with established supporters, potential fans, and other artists. It used to be a pain scouring through websites of literary journals to whom I could submit my work with hopes that a poem would be placed and my name would appear on the coveted pages of Google. Now, all it takes is a couple clicks of a mouse, taps of the keyboard and minimal knowledge of keywords and you can spread yourself across the world.
Instead of mulling over where and how I could be seen/read, the question has become "What can I put out there to make myself stand out as an upcoming writer and be taken seriously in the literary world respectively?"
Whether it's coming up with interesting blog topics or trying to figure out how much information I should actually share on Twitter, the Web 2.0 revolution has almost created as much stress as it has good. Now I'm faced with the matter of maintaining my image as a talented writer, and allowing the world to see that, even as a poet, I'm not always deep and analytical as people would assume (when reading my work). It's a blessing and a curse. I'm able to reach the masses with little/no funds, yet taking advantage of the web robs people of the mystique that people have about artists whose personalities have generally been left to decode between pages, on canvas and other nonverbal mediums.
Either way it goes, I'm happy that I'm an artist in an age where my words can be stretched around the globe with a few clicks. The challenge is now figuring out how to make the most of these socializing opportunities.
Instead of mulling over where and how I could be seen/read, the question has become "What can I put out there to make myself stand out as an upcoming writer and be taken seriously in the literary world respectively?"
Whether it's coming up with interesting blog topics or trying to figure out how much information I should actually share on Twitter, the Web 2.0 revolution has almost created as much stress as it has good. Now I'm faced with the matter of maintaining my image as a talented writer, and allowing the world to see that, even as a poet, I'm not always deep and analytical as people would assume (when reading my work). It's a blessing and a curse. I'm able to reach the masses with little/no funds, yet taking advantage of the web robs people of the mystique that people have about artists whose personalities have generally been left to decode between pages, on canvas and other nonverbal mediums.
Either way it goes, I'm happy that I'm an artist in an age where my words can be stretched around the globe with a few clicks. The challenge is now figuring out how to make the most of these socializing opportunities.
Tweeters Anonymous.
I'm not really addicted to Twitter. However, I do find it rather compelling to share irrelevant details of my life with my followers, most of whom I've never met face-to-face. I even admire those who Tweet far more than me, although, admittedly I don't read the bulk of their posts. The big numbers have been most impressive, not the content of their 140-word blurbs. I constantly seek out interesting people to follow. I un-follow people who prove themselves unworthy of the bandwidth. Whenever I do/hear/see/think something noteworthy, I instantly brainstorm phrases to make the pending Tweet catchy enough to grab the attention of people who could probably care less. Okay, so perhaps I am slightly addicted to Twitter.
I've been toying around with an essay on writers and how we can/should use this new Web 2.0 movement to promote our literature. In that, I've been making note of the microblogging phenomena that is Twitter and checking out the Tweets of fellow scribes. I must say, the Tweets of most writers I've come across are no less and no more insightful than others. While Twitter can certainly be used as a promotional tool, many people fail to take advantage of the reach their Tweets can have. I, too, am guilty of this. While I'm not promising to cease unnecessary posts, I am definitely becoming more mindful about how I use Twitter as it relates to sharing my personality and work.
With that said, follow me and watch this video:
I've been toying around with an essay on writers and how we can/should use this new Web 2.0 movement to promote our literature. In that, I've been making note of the microblogging phenomena that is Twitter and checking out the Tweets of fellow scribes. I must say, the Tweets of most writers I've come across are no less and no more insightful than others. While Twitter can certainly be used as a promotional tool, many people fail to take advantage of the reach their Tweets can have. I, too, am guilty of this. While I'm not promising to cease unnecessary posts, I am definitely becoming more mindful about how I use Twitter as it relates to sharing my personality and work.
With that said, follow me and watch this video:
13 Phrases #4: David Thomas Jarecki
I met DTJ on Issuu, a site where small publications and regular folk can upload documents to share in a smooth page-turning format. He commented on the excerpt from [If] Life's Rotten, Write to the Core. Dave's comments on my work were inspiring and encouraging, especially coming from a fellow writer. Since our first online encounter, David has been sure to keep in touch. Currently, he is busy at work on the next issue of the Kankazine, in which I will be a featured poet. Check him out.
1. By day, I am a Logistician.
2. I write best when I am depressed about universal issues while being content in my personal life and responsibilities. When I am universally content or have challenges in my personal life I cannot focus on writing.
3. When I find it difficult to complete a piece, I complete the piece. I'll force myself to finish it even if it is in the worst way possible just so that it is done and all concerns about finishing it are gone. Then I go back to the beginning to find what first inspired me about the work. When I see how I rushed through to finish it I get angry at myself for doing so and channel that back toward my original passion to complete it the right way.
4. Three things that help me recover from Writer's Block are: I don't believe in Writer's Block. I believe that writers are in a perpetual state of creation. When we hit a speed bump or get stumped about a piece that we are focusing on that natural creative instinct is subconsciously being focused somewhere else. Here are three things to do when you think you have Writer's Block: 1--Figure out where that creative energy is being focused. 2. Make a decision on weather you should keep it directed that way or shift it back toward whatever you were working on. 3. DO NOT direct your thoughts and energy to feed the notion of Writer's Block.
5. I starting writing because my Catholic school 8th grade nun teacher read a paper I wrote and told me I didn't write it because she didn't see the same effort in my other school work. Day in and day out I worked to prove her wrong. As a side bonus, I love how she contributed in her own way to the fact that I am proud to call myself Multi-denominational when it comes to religious categorization.
6. I continued to write because it was a great release and a better, guilt-free, use of my time than video games. I found it to be more rewarding than anything else that I was doing in my life.
7. I will always write because I can't stop. I am truly blessed that after 7 years of smoking cigarettes I was able to quit cold turkey 7 years ago on the first date with who would become my future wife Nora. After several attempts to quit writing and focus on other things, I have failed.
8. If I weren't a writer, I'd be a film director or actor.
9. The writer(s) who influence and inspire my work are Jack Kerouac, J.D. Salinger, C. Shoup, Chris Rock, Richard Roeper, James Riordan, John Lennon, Roger Ebert, Paul Reps, Jim Morrison, George Carlin, the Dalai Lama, Allen Ginsburg, David Mamet, Wyclef Jean, Bill Maher, David Koepp, Ain HD, Paul Thomas Anderson, Robert Frost, The Cohen Brothers, The RZA, Richard Kelly, William S. Burroughs, Redman, Roger Waters, Christopher Guest.
10. The most important goal I have as a writer is for people to not scratch their heads as often as they currently do after reading my stuff.
11. People who read my work are most likely going to scratch their heads.
12. My most significant piece to date is The Legend of the Fetal Poltergeist
13. There is nothing more important than not giving up. No matter what your dreams or goals are you will get knocked down many many times--it's part of the process. If we could all snap our fingers and get what we wanted all the time life would be boring. Learn to enjoy and appreciate the moments that you get knocked down. The purpose of those moments is to make the moments that we stand tall more rewarding! Rock on and make it happen.
Excerpt from The Legend of The Fetal Poltergeist:
Breakfast Luck from July
Hoarding all the cereal
on a morning in July.
Mocking the imperial
by laying where I lie.
About that four-leafed clover,
I’ll use it if I can.
Hell is greening over,
the pasture’s where I am!
Embracing my temptation
a deadly fantasy.
Pennies in a fountain,
an imitation of the sea.
I gamble my summer,
Caesar owns its split.
Horseshoes land in winter
from a toasted autumn rift.
Defying this betrayal,
a season without love.
Bowls land on my table
descending from above.
Regales that we greet
are traffic in our jam.
Scratched by rabbit’s feet,
thoughtlessness disbands.
Not ‘til lunch will I be hungry,
independence day is full.
Autumn’s noon is soupy,
who cares about your pull.
My meals are branded sloppy,
my reputation’s stuck.
But I’ll continue happy,
‘cause that’s my given luck!
1. By day, I am a Logistician.2. I write best when I am depressed about universal issues while being content in my personal life and responsibilities. When I am universally content or have challenges in my personal life I cannot focus on writing.
3. When I find it difficult to complete a piece, I complete the piece. I'll force myself to finish it even if it is in the worst way possible just so that it is done and all concerns about finishing it are gone. Then I go back to the beginning to find what first inspired me about the work. When I see how I rushed through to finish it I get angry at myself for doing so and channel that back toward my original passion to complete it the right way.
4. Three things that help me recover from Writer's Block are: I don't believe in Writer's Block. I believe that writers are in a perpetual state of creation. When we hit a speed bump or get stumped about a piece that we are focusing on that natural creative instinct is subconsciously being focused somewhere else. Here are three things to do when you think you have Writer's Block: 1--Figure out where that creative energy is being focused. 2. Make a decision on weather you should keep it directed that way or shift it back toward whatever you were working on. 3. DO NOT direct your thoughts and energy to feed the notion of Writer's Block.
5. I starting writing because my Catholic school 8th grade nun teacher read a paper I wrote and told me I didn't write it because she didn't see the same effort in my other school work. Day in and day out I worked to prove her wrong. As a side bonus, I love how she contributed in her own way to the fact that I am proud to call myself Multi-denominational when it comes to religious categorization.
6. I continued to write because it was a great release and a better, guilt-free, use of my time than video games. I found it to be more rewarding than anything else that I was doing in my life.
7. I will always write because I can't stop. I am truly blessed that after 7 years of smoking cigarettes I was able to quit cold turkey 7 years ago on the first date with who would become my future wife Nora. After several attempts to quit writing and focus on other things, I have failed.
8. If I weren't a writer, I'd be a film director or actor.
9. The writer(s) who influence and inspire my work are Jack Kerouac, J.D. Salinger, C. Shoup, Chris Rock, Richard Roeper, James Riordan, John Lennon, Roger Ebert, Paul Reps, Jim Morrison, George Carlin, the Dalai Lama, Allen Ginsburg, David Mamet, Wyclef Jean, Bill Maher, David Koepp, Ain HD, Paul Thomas Anderson, Robert Frost, The Cohen Brothers, The RZA, Richard Kelly, William S. Burroughs, Redman, Roger Waters, Christopher Guest.
10. The most important goal I have as a writer is for people to not scratch their heads as often as they currently do after reading my stuff.
11. People who read my work are most likely going to scratch their heads.
12. My most significant piece to date is The Legend of the Fetal Poltergeist
13. There is nothing more important than not giving up. No matter what your dreams or goals are you will get knocked down many many times--it's part of the process. If we could all snap our fingers and get what we wanted all the time life would be boring. Learn to enjoy and appreciate the moments that you get knocked down. The purpose of those moments is to make the moments that we stand tall more rewarding! Rock on and make it happen.
Excerpt from The Legend of The Fetal Poltergeist:
Breakfast Luck from July
Hoarding all the cereal
on a morning in July.
Mocking the imperial
by laying where I lie.
About that four-leafed clover,
I’ll use it if I can.
Hell is greening over,
the pasture’s where I am!
Embracing my temptation
a deadly fantasy.
Pennies in a fountain,
an imitation of the sea.
I gamble my summer,
Caesar owns its split.
Horseshoes land in winter
from a toasted autumn rift.
Defying this betrayal,
a season without love.
Bowls land on my table
descending from above.
Regales that we greet
are traffic in our jam.
Scratched by rabbit’s feet,
thoughtlessness disbands.
Not ‘til lunch will I be hungry,
independence day is full.
Autumn’s noon is soupy,
who cares about your pull.
My meals are branded sloppy,
my reputation’s stuck.
But I’ll continue happy,
‘cause that’s my given luck!
Contact David Thomas Jarecki:
Email: theothman7@comcast.net
Website: http://www.issuu.com/djareck
Buy: http://www.planetostrogoth.com
Email: theothman7@comcast.net
Website: http://www.issuu.com/djareck
Buy: http://www.planetostrogoth.com
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