Publications: Decanto Interview.

This interview was included in the August 2007 edition of Decanto Magazine.

1. What age were you when you first became interested in poetry?

I studied English Literature throughout my school years, and despite the high grades I never really believed in pursuing the subject further until I was around the age of eighteen. I started writing poetry freely in my spare time, and then eventually decided it was time to go to University and develop my creativity further.

2. How many years have you been writing poetry?

Around about five years.

3.What things inspire you to write?

Consciously, it would have to be the moments of my everyday life; sub-consciously, it is the first authors that I studied in school: Carol Ann Duffy and Ted Hughes, etc.

4.What do you think of older poetry?

I find it a challenge. Medieval and Renaissance poetry is particularly difficult to digest at first, but after discussion and in-depth analysis I believe it to be the root of all modern poetry, and we have to respect that.

5.What do you think of modern poetry?

I love the contemporary language, which includes modern day slang and offensive diversity of chosen words. I think this is something every human being in modern day society can relate to, whether they declare themselves as "poetry lovers" or not.

6.Who are your favourite poets?

The list changes with every book I read. At the minute, I'd say Tony Harrison.

7. Who or What has been your greatest inspiration? You may choose more than one.

My Mother; the people I meet, whether good or bad.

8.Do you think poetry still has a place in our culture today?

I'd like to think so because there are so many poets out there (myself included) hoping one day to inspire an audience with their work. However, when it comes to big business corporations running our economy, I am pessimistic in the sense that I don't see poetry as being a money making scheme that could change the course of the world. Anyone who ever thinks that seriously needs to take a good look at our current reality.

9.What does poetry mean to you?

My voice, heart and soul as complete.

10. Do you have a favourite poem?

As with the favourite poets, the list changes every time I find a new book to read. Currently, 'Leaves of Grass' by Walt Whitman and 'V' by Tony Harrison are strong contenders.

11. Do you do any other writing besides poetry?

I write short stories and movie and music reviews.