John Barton
John Barton
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.
poems
To me many short poems read and write like beginnings that simply whet my appetite; I want to get over that.
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.
benefits companies compete offers package pick whoever
These companies will compete to be picked, and we'll pick whoever offers the package that better benefits the patient.
conversation entered poetry
Sometimes poetry is inspired by the conversation entered into by reading other poems.
people
We have to have people in the right position, we have to do something to get in straight.
god ideal
Who is the ideal reader? God only knows.
absurd amused became colours decides hot intrigued
I became intrigued with colour theory. The absurd pronouncements of the Colour Institute, a group that decides what colours are hot each year or season, amused me.