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I'm not a poet, although I've written some poems (of the variety that mostly speak to me). But have always felt that poetry is the only kind of writing I could ever possibly do, should I ever seriously try to. I get why you feel that ink making and poetry making are related - both seem to involve distillation and essences and illumination, or putting one's finger exactly on the tender point.

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I’m so curious why the crushed pink carnations wasn’t allowed. I agree - the stories it held!

I’m a constant, enthusiastic and consistently failed poet.

I’m also concerned about money. I also realized last year, what with the relentless march of the AI (among other factors), that I just couldn’t hack being a graphic designer/art director in the corporate world any more. I just don’t have the stomach for it.

So I got a grant and now I’m six months into becoming a PSW. Last week was my first stint in the LTC home and I’m already in love with all my residents and I just want to look after them forever.

This course is insane though - the sheer volume of materials - and I’m not used to studying and I’ll be so relieved if I can pass the exam in July and have my life back.

My idea was to do something more meaningful while hoping that the tide of the small book presses will turn so I can carry on writing my oddball books (self publishing isn’t an option I want to explore - I’m not judgy, it’s just not my thing).

Finding a new publisher may be a futile dream and my authorly life may well die along with my once having been a magazine art director which was, for 24 years, the reason I got out of bed.

Anyway!! Sorry!! This is just to say (and no, it’s not about the plums), that we have to somehow forge on, forage on - and keep creating and writing.

And I ❤️ Poetry Forever.

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What a fantastic project! Exactly right for you.

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What a beautiful love letter to poets that was 🥹. Can’t wait to see the ink tests and behind-the scenes!

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