I was feeling the love at my reading on Thursday night … not because the room was full to the brim … only 8 people were there … but because the people in that room were so dear to me; I was so feeling the love. I also think I am improving each time I read which is good. Each time, I am less nervous and feel I have more of a command over my poems and performance. I did sell 5 copies of Small Murders which was quite nice considering there were only 8 people. The book is available online via Amazon and Barnes and Noble, also via the New Issues Press site, www.wmich.edu/~newissue/index.html. There are also two poems from the book on the New Issues site.
In a recent issue of Poets and Writers magazine, there was a great article with many great tips on plugging your work, preparing for interviews, and performing. When reading, especially a longer poem, my mouth begins to tire … not really cottonmouth, but a weird tired jaw feeling. This article advised face muscle exercises before a performance … opening your mouth really wide and holding it, a kind of stretching your mouth. I did this while I was getting ready and it did seem to help. Just thought I would pass that tip on …
Even though the room was not filled with tons of people drolling for poetry, it was filled with such great moments for me. My friend’s little brother made me a gourmet grilled cheese before the reading since I wanted something on the lighter side to eat beforehand. Two dear friends were in town from out of state and the night possessed a sort of magical quality with my nearest and dearest there. I was also presented with a torque from my friend’s dad after I finished reading. He said it was a Celtic tradition to give torques to poets who had earned respect. That was something I was not expecting, something wonderful and gorgeous, and seeping with emotion for me.
I have to begin to think of more venues where I can read. It sounds like I may read at Fire again as well. I will be starting the “conference circuit” in late February.
And I am still looking for a title for the second collection … any ideas? Something simple but possessing texture and a possibility for metaphorical meaning. I am liking Maybe.
