Inspirations:
I spent a long time debating if I would make this page or not. A voice in my head kept saying, "You're just starting out into the world of poetry. What gives you the right to suggest prompts or people to follow?"
But I think that is precisely why I should share what inspires me. On this page, you will find some of what set me off down the poetry pathway, and what keeps me walking it... for better or worse. I hope some of this will be of interest to you.
Crazy Girl
This wonderful piece inspired my poem of the same name. Over the course of my degree, this piece has provided a window into creativity when writing seemed otherwise impossible. If you find yourself in the midst of a block, give this a listen and see where it takes you.
Antosh Wojcik: My invisible friend is an insomniac.
I was incredibly fortunate to be taught by Antosh for two years at the University of Winchester. In that time, he moulded me into the poet I am today. But out of all the weird and wonderful writing prompts, and every inspirational conversation, this Roundhouse Poetry Slam winning performance is what I keep coming back to. Both the poem itself, and the enrapturing rawness of the delivery, provide me a well of inspiration. I challenge you to watch this and not feel a need to create something afterwards.
Someday I'll love...
In his poem 'Katy,' Frank O'Hara wrote, 'Someday I'll love Frank O'Hara.' This inspired Roger Reeves to write a 'Someday I'll Love' poem about himself,' which in turn led Ocean Vuong to do the same. These days, Someday I'll love [insert your name here] is a common formula, and with good reason. Approaching oneself in this way, as if your past or future selves are separate characters, lends itself to profound self-exploration. Every 'Someday I'll love' poem I have read, or listened to, has fascinated me, and my own 'Someday' poem is perhaps my most cherished work to date. If you are in need of a poetic prompt, I don't think you can go wrong with this one.
#WritingCommunity
The Internet is full of dark and dangerous pockets, but there are some oases of brightness too. The most notable one of these I have found as a writer is the Writing Community hashtag on Twitter. Thousands of people, from all across the world, share writing experiences and offer support daily. Whether you are starting your first project, are working on your third trilogy, or just want to talk about writing, it is a supportive environment and a great source of creativity.