We love learning more about our contributors, and an interview seemed like a fun way to hear more about the writers and artists we publish, so we gave them a choice of questions to answer. We hope you also enjoy hearing more about the artists and their works. Check out Issue 30 to read "Open Mic Night" from John Davis.


Give us a recipe and tell us why you chose it--what's special about that dish?
Stinging Nettle Soup

Boil young leaves for 2-3 minutes and set aside
Saute onions in butter. Generous with butter. Yum the butter.
Add 3-4 strips of center cut bacon…the real stuff.
Brown. Add in 2-3 cups water
½ cup of whipping (again, the real stuff)
Swirl in the nettles
Salt to taste
Sherry is optional

What do you do in the rest of your life and how does that connect and/or conflict with your creative life?
I let loose playing guitar and harmonica in a few bands. Rock it out. I hike most Mondays, breathe in the joy that is there.

Who are some of your favorite writers or artists, and what do you like about them?
Give me Phil Levine, Yusef Kommunyakaa, Louise Erdrich (check out Jacklight), Ruth Madievsky, Kelli Agodon, Rita Dove, David Wagoner, Jim Daniels
and I’m ready to be inspired from  their rhythms, sonics and narratives.

What is your creative process? Do you plan pieces out or let them happen as they come?
I come to a blank piece of paper and let words unravel their rhythms into a poem. I believe in Stafford’s edict: “lower your standards.” I try not to get in the way of a poem. On average I write 3-4 poems weekly. I will read some of the above poets for inspiration before finding my own way.

What are your 3-5 favorite and 3-5 least favorite words and why?
Favorite words: waterfall, rhythm, peaches
Least Favorite words: pus, moreish, meadow (too prissy)