I am not the recipient of a Massachusetts Cultural Council grant, nor did I receive a poetry fellowship to Bread Loaf. That one-two punch came within days of each other. Awesomesauce.
At least I have a few months before not receiving an NEA. Or as I like to think of it: hitting the trifecta.
****
Pity party. Party of one.
****
Hard to sulk on a Saturday, high today 89 degrees … but I’m going to try. Will be back to my old positive self tomorrow. Today, I feel like sulking. As a good friend of mine says, “Feel however you want to feel today, and then get over it.”
****
More on Beauty-gate.
****
To-do List
1. Revise three poems
2. Send out to two publications
3. Write a book blurb
4. Plot summer writing project
5. Update bios
****
Famous Author Rejection Letters: True Stories Of Unbelievable Rejections
This is helping.
****
My posse’s getting big and my posse’s getting bigger.
Saturday, May 26, 2012
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Jive Talkin'
Did you see Collin Kelley's updated list of poets on Twitter? If not, check it out.
Admittedly, I get most of my news updates and poetry info from Twitter. I read the stuff I want to read without all the noise.
****
I spent the morning time with my writers group in Salem. Worked on a poem draft that's been with me for a while. It was somewhat influenced by staying up too late to watch Star Trek the movie. What can I say? It's a good remake. Chris Pine is cute!
Try working the word "singularity" into a poem. Not as easy as it seems.
****
Anyone walking into my office now will hear me singing with the Bee Gees.
"You want to take away my energy with all your jive talkin' ..."
R.I.P Robin Gibb.
Admittedly, I get most of my news updates and poetry info from Twitter. I read the stuff I want to read without all the noise.
****
I spent the morning time with my writers group in Salem. Worked on a poem draft that's been with me for a while. It was somewhat influenced by staying up too late to watch Star Trek the movie. What can I say? It's a good remake. Chris Pine is cute!
Try working the word "singularity" into a poem. Not as easy as it seems.
****
Anyone walking into my office now will hear me singing with the Bee Gees.
"You want to take away my energy with all your jive talkin' ..."
R.I.P Robin Gibb.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Confession Tuesday
It's Confession Tuesday!
Did you think I forgot what day it was? Tsk, tsk ...
****
I am still basking in the glow of my whirlwind trip to NYC. The photo shoot with Rachel Eliza Griffiths on Sunday was just fun. Honestly, I'm more excited about the extra shots she took of Joseph Legaspi and me than I am of my own. And then there's yesterday's luncheon, seeing Tracy K. Smith receive the Pulitzer ...
*swoon*
The thread running through the NY trip was that I got to spend time with three people who are incredibly connected to their work. Rachel, Joseph, and Tracy seemed to have aligned (or are in the process of aligning) their lives to reflect their values. Their work is central to their art. Put another way, they are doing what they love.
At the risk of getting a little hippy-dippy here, they are putting tremendous energy into the universe and I believe wholeheartedly that the universe is repaying it to them in happiness. They are inspiring and now I am inspired.
****
Also inspiring is the new summer position I'm taking on at Salem State University. This is my first day as project manager for the Center for Creative and Performing Arts. In addition to my Mass Poetry work, I'm helping manage the administrative side of the Summer Theatre Program, and working with J.D. Scrimgeour on the Salem State Poetry Seminar. Twelve college students from around the Commonwealth will attend a weeklong workshop with nightly readings, and a final "master class" taught by Afaa Michael Weaver.
****
Feeling very satisfied today, like the poetry "well" has been filled.
****
Even though it's been raining horses and cows for the last two days, I know the sun is waiting to appear again.
****
On the poetry front, I'm determined to work on drafts that want to be poems. Just like birthing, I need to hunker down and push those suckers out. Not very poetic, but true.
****
Any recommendations on recently written poetry books by women? I want to know who has a 2011-12 title that just knocks your socks off. Who should I read next?
Happy Tuesday, folks.
Did you think I forgot what day it was? Tsk, tsk ...
****
I am still basking in the glow of my whirlwind trip to NYC. The photo shoot with Rachel Eliza Griffiths on Sunday was just fun. Honestly, I'm more excited about the extra shots she took of Joseph Legaspi and me than I am of my own. And then there's yesterday's luncheon, seeing Tracy K. Smith receive the Pulitzer ...
*swoon*
The thread running through the NY trip was that I got to spend time with three people who are incredibly connected to their work. Rachel, Joseph, and Tracy seemed to have aligned (or are in the process of aligning) their lives to reflect their values. Their work is central to their art. Put another way, they are doing what they love.
At the risk of getting a little hippy-dippy here, they are putting tremendous energy into the universe and I believe wholeheartedly that the universe is repaying it to them in happiness. They are inspiring and now I am inspired.
****
Also inspiring is the new summer position I'm taking on at Salem State University. This is my first day as project manager for the Center for Creative and Performing Arts. In addition to my Mass Poetry work, I'm helping manage the administrative side of the Summer Theatre Program, and working with J.D. Scrimgeour on the Salem State Poetry Seminar. Twelve college students from around the Commonwealth will attend a weeklong workshop with nightly readings, and a final "master class" taught by Afaa Michael Weaver.
****
Feeling very satisfied today, like the poetry "well" has been filled.
****
Even though it's been raining horses and cows for the last two days, I know the sun is waiting to appear again.
****
On the poetry front, I'm determined to work on drafts that want to be poems. Just like birthing, I need to hunker down and push those suckers out. Not very poetic, but true.
****
Any recommendations on recently written poetry books by women? I want to know who has a 2011-12 title that just knocks your socks off. Who should I read next?
Happy Tuesday, folks.
2012 Pulitzer Luncheon
At yesterday's Pulitzer Prizes luncheon, Thomas Friedman, co-chair of the Pulitzer Prize Board, in his remarks said " ... being on this [Pulitzer] board is like being in the best book club in the world." So, it was fun for me sitting in on the book club for a day. I admit it--I felt like one of the cool kids.
On a rainy afternoon, we gathered at Columbia University's Low Library for the 2012 awards luncheon. There were cocktails and conversation, a decadent lunch, and the formal program presentation. Honestly, I was hoping to snag the fiction prize by hiding it under my jacket and walking away with it. I mean, no one would miss it ... No such luck.
That's Joseph Legaspi. He is luminous.
Awaiting me at my assigned seat was this delicious asparagus salad. On the chair was the awards program; a hefty publication called The Pulitzer Prizes: Winners, 1917 to the Present, Including Nominated Finalists, 1980 to Present; and another publication called Fifty Great Stories, an impressive sample of the great journalism produced by Columbia graduates.
No readings or speeches, just the award handed out and a photo op with each recipient.
Why, you may be asking, am I showing you two pictures of desserts? Because they are not just any desserts, two of the three are doughnuts. And one of them (the one with dark sugar on it), had a chili finish at the end of each bite. My taste buds were in shock. However, the tall, frozen creamy chocolate mousse dessert thingy was a nice balance to all that heat.
("thingy" is a technical term)
"I can never stay mad at you, doughnuts!"
Since it was rainy outside, the group photo was taken on stage. If you look closely, you can see Miss Tracy in the front row!
It was a terrific celebration of the best in journalism, letters, drama, and music. My thanks to Jo Jo for letting me peak into his world on a rainy Monday. And congrats to Tracy for creating an incredible collection of poetry.
On a rainy afternoon, we gathered at Columbia University's Low Library for the 2012 awards luncheon. There were cocktails and conversation, a decadent lunch, and the formal program presentation. Honestly, I was hoping to snag the fiction prize by hiding it under my jacket and walking away with it. I mean, no one would miss it ... No such luck.
That's Joseph Legaspi. He is luminous.
Awaiting me at my assigned seat was this delicious asparagus salad. On the chair was the awards program; a hefty publication called The Pulitzer Prizes: Winners, 1917 to the Present, Including Nominated Finalists, 1980 to Present; and another publication called Fifty Great Stories, an impressive sample of the great journalism produced by Columbia graduates.
No readings or speeches, just the award handed out and a photo op with each recipient.
Here I am with Tracy K. Smith, this year's Pulitzer Prize winner in Poetry. If you have not read Life on Mars, run--don't walk--to your nearest (indie) bookstore and pick up a copy. It's fantastic!
Talk about luminous!
Goofballs.
Why, you may be asking, am I showing you two pictures of desserts? Because they are not just any desserts, two of the three are doughnuts. And one of them (the one with dark sugar on it), had a chili finish at the end of each bite. My taste buds were in shock. However, the tall, frozen creamy chocolate mousse dessert thingy was a nice balance to all that heat.
("thingy" is a technical term)
"I can never stay mad at you, doughnuts!"
Since it was rainy outside, the group photo was taken on stage. If you look closely, you can see Miss Tracy in the front row!
It was a terrific celebration of the best in journalism, letters, drama, and music. My thanks to Jo Jo for letting me peak into his world on a rainy Monday. And congrats to Tracy for creating an incredible collection of poetry.
Monday, May 21, 2012
P.O.P
This is me at the DUMBO studio of Rachel Eliza Griffiths. I'm posing for new author photos, and I have to say I'm excited to see what she comes up with. (This photo was taken by the beautiful and talented Joseph Legaspi.)
I've wanted new pictures for a while now, pictures that capture this time in my life. What does 43 look like? Who am I now after two kids and more life changes that I can count? These photos are a celebration of me right now. I'm thrilled Rachel could fit me into her busy schedule.
Rachel also asked me to sit for a P.O.P video. On her site, she describes this project as "an ongoing conversation between and about poets." This is a huge project. Go check out a few of the videos.
Thanks Rachel!
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Fiddleheads
Have you ever participated in a poetry reading but you were just not into it? That’s how I felt earlier this week. Not sure why I wasn’t into it—certainly not because of the audience, the other poets, or the reading series itself. I just was off and not motivated. Maybe it was the weather (a rainy Tuesday night). Or maybe, and this is most likely, I’m bored with my own poetry.
Is this ennui? Whatever it's called, it's present in everything I write lately. Nothing I’m putting on paper excites me. And I haven’t found a book to shake me out of my funk.
Oh well. This, too, shall pass. Sometimes the only way out is through. Warm, sunny weather has arrived. That helps.
****
Download out a copy of Diane Lockward’s e-collection of poems called Twelve for the Record. You can have it sent to your smart phone or e-reader for $3. I think it’s an interesting model for poets to consider. Still not crazy about the formatting on my Kindle for iPhone, but, in general, I think this is where poetry publishing is headed.
Books will never go away--there’s no substitute for holding a book in your hands. But this is a great way for writers to get their work to market quicker.
Thanks, Diane!
****
I had fiddleheads for the first time yesterday. Taste like broccoli. Now I’m trying to write a poem about them. Of course, I read a Wikipedia entry on them that said the furrowed fronds can be toxic is not cooked properly. Yikes.
(Colleen, I tried fiddleheads!)
Is this ennui? Whatever it's called, it's present in everything I write lately. Nothing I’m putting on paper excites me. And I haven’t found a book to shake me out of my funk.
Oh well. This, too, shall pass. Sometimes the only way out is through. Warm, sunny weather has arrived. That helps.
****
Download out a copy of Diane Lockward’s e-collection of poems called Twelve for the Record. You can have it sent to your smart phone or e-reader for $3. I think it’s an interesting model for poets to consider. Still not crazy about the formatting on my Kindle for iPhone, but, in general, I think this is where poetry publishing is headed.
Books will never go away--there’s no substitute for holding a book in your hands. But this is a great way for writers to get their work to market quicker.
Thanks, Diane!
****
I had fiddleheads for the first time yesterday. Taste like broccoli. Now I’m trying to write a poem about them. Of course, I read a Wikipedia entry on them that said the furrowed fronds can be toxic is not cooked properly. Yikes.
(Colleen, I tried fiddleheads!)
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Confession Tuesday
Happy Tuesday, folks. Time to share your confessions. Tell us a little about yourself and we promise to do the same.
Here's a pic from Mothers' Day at Fenway park. Alex and Ella are standing next to Pesky's Pole, and next to the Red Sox's latest draft pick. Had to talk Ella out of touching his moustache.
****
I heard a new term that I think applies to me: "Momarazzi." I take so many pictures of my children it must seem like I am stalking them. Perhaps that's true. One day they'll be glad I documented all of these goofy moments. Can't wait to bring out some of these photos during the high school years!
(Insert evil laugh here!)
****
True confession: I'm cheating on Starbucks with Panera's this morning. I don't feel good about. But I'm sorry, the food is better at Panera's. There, I said it!
Is it cheating if I just eat breakfast and not drink the hot chocolate? The wi-fi policy is better at Starbucks. And there always seems to be a ton of informal business meetings going on at Panera's, men with ties but no jackets. Just not the right vibe for writing, so I'll be back where I belong very, very soon.
****
Working on a new poem (yay!). I'm also starting to get a handle on what direction my writing will take in the next few weeks. I need to mull it over a little more, but if I keep this project small and manageable, I can write a new series of poems by the end of summer.
****
Festival: done. Grading: done. Finding balance: in progress. Summer o' Fun: it's coming, baby!
Happy Tuesday, folks!
Here's a pic from Mothers' Day at Fenway park. Alex and Ella are standing next to Pesky's Pole, and next to the Red Sox's latest draft pick. Had to talk Ella out of touching his moustache.
****
I heard a new term that I think applies to me: "Momarazzi." I take so many pictures of my children it must seem like I am stalking them. Perhaps that's true. One day they'll be glad I documented all of these goofy moments. Can't wait to bring out some of these photos during the high school years!
(Insert evil laugh here!)
****
True confession: I'm cheating on Starbucks with Panera's this morning. I don't feel good about. But I'm sorry, the food is better at Panera's. There, I said it!
Is it cheating if I just eat breakfast and not drink the hot chocolate? The wi-fi policy is better at Starbucks. And there always seems to be a ton of informal business meetings going on at Panera's, men with ties but no jackets. Just not the right vibe for writing, so I'll be back where I belong very, very soon.
****
Working on a new poem (yay!). I'm also starting to get a handle on what direction my writing will take in the next few weeks. I need to mull it over a little more, but if I keep this project small and manageable, I can write a new series of poems by the end of summer.
****
Festival: done. Grading: done. Finding balance: in progress. Summer o' Fun: it's coming, baby!
Happy Tuesday, folks!
Monday, May 14, 2012
The First and Last Word Poetry Series
Hope you can make it for this reading tomorrow night!
****
Tuesday, May 15
7 p.m.
THE CENTER FOR THE ARTS AT THE ARMORY
POETRY AT THE CAFÉ
191 Highland Avenue, Somerville, MA
Admission $4
READING AND OPEN MIC: Bass Guitarist: Ethan Mackler (accompaniment optional on open mic); Hosted by Harris Gardner and Gloria Mindock
THE FIRST AND LAST WORD POETRY SERIES
featuring: Lawrence Kessenich, January O'Neil, and Afaa Michael Weaver
Lawrence Kessenich won the 2010 Strokestown International Poetry Prize. He has been published in Atlanta Review, Poetry Ireland Review, and many other magazines. His chapbook Strange News was published by Pudding House Publications in 2008. Another chapbook was shortlisted for the St. Lawrence Book Award and Spire Press Chapbook Contest. His poem "Underground Jesus" was nominated for a Pushcart Prize.
January Gill O'Neil is the author of Underlife (CavanKerry Press, December 2009), and a forthcoming collection, Misery Islands (CavanKerry Press, fall 2014). She is the executive director of the Massachusetts Poetry Festival and an assistant professor of English at Salem State University.
Afaa M. Weaver (b. Michael S. Weaver) is a poet, playwright, short fiction writer, translator, and editor. His new book, The Government of Nature, is due from U Pitt in early 2013. Lately, he has been working on a memoir and meditating on life as experience and influence leading to a life lived as a singularity of being. He teaches at Simmons College.
****
Tuesday, May 15
7 p.m.
THE CENTER FOR THE ARTS AT THE ARMORY
POETRY AT THE CAFÉ
191 Highland Avenue, Somerville, MA
Admission $4
READING AND OPEN MIC: Bass Guitarist: Ethan Mackler (accompaniment optional on open mic); Hosted by Harris Gardner and Gloria Mindock
THE FIRST AND LAST WORD POETRY SERIES
featuring: Lawrence Kessenich, January O'Neil, and Afaa Michael Weaver
Lawrence Kessenich won the 2010 Strokestown International Poetry Prize. He has been published in Atlanta Review, Poetry Ireland Review, and many other magazines. His chapbook Strange News was published by Pudding House Publications in 2008. Another chapbook was shortlisted for the St. Lawrence Book Award and Spire Press Chapbook Contest. His poem "Underground Jesus" was nominated for a Pushcart Prize.
January Gill O'Neil is the author of Underlife (CavanKerry Press, December 2009), and a forthcoming collection, Misery Islands (CavanKerry Press, fall 2014). She is the executive director of the Massachusetts Poetry Festival and an assistant professor of English at Salem State University.
Afaa M. Weaver (b. Michael S. Weaver) is a poet, playwright, short fiction writer, translator, and editor. His new book, The Government of Nature, is due from U Pitt in early 2013. Lately, he has been working on a memoir and meditating on life as experience and influence leading to a life lived as a singularity of being. He teaches at Simmons College.
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