John Barton
John Barton
poems
To me many short poems read and write like beginnings that simply whet my appetite; I want to get over that.
cannot poems tinker
I sometimes like to tinker with poems that have failed, ones that I have sent aside. Even years afterward, I will revisit them if there is something about them that I cannot give up on.
obvious outset poems unfold
I have been told my poems unfold in such a way that it is not at all obvious from the outset where they are going or how they will end.
either poems remarkably unaware understanding verse written
Most victims of my autobiographical verse are either far too polite, remarkably understanding unaware that I have written poems about them.
easily expect poem poetry reader
No poem is easily grasped; so why should any reader expect fast results?
combined elements experiment hope interest mostly poem pulling various
The experiment of the poem is mostly intuitive. I write the first draft, pulling in the various elements that interest me, in the hope that their being combined will lead to some kind of insight.
chose poems relative
I would not say I chose to write long poems on a conscious level. The long poem has been a relative constant.
brought conditions consider elements experiment interact number poem test
I consider a poem to be a kind of experiment where a number of elements are brought together under test conditions to see how they will interact to create meaning or relevance.
build critical greatest help poems publishing thoughtful
The greatest satisfaction comes from publishing interesting poems and well written, thoughtful critical material, and to help build a community.
time
You can never step into the same book twice, because you are different each time you read it.
allow disregard good prejudices readers
Some readers allow their prejudices to blind them. A good reader knows how to disregard inappropriate responses.
agent poetry reader uses
An experienced reader uses the poem as an agent of inquiry. This makes poetry very exciting, unstable, and interactive.
conversation entered poetry
Sometimes poetry is inspired by the conversation entered into by reading other poems.
connect editor intended literary
A literary journal is intended to connect writer with reader; the role of the editor is to mediate.