In the film Before Sunrise, the character Celine mentions that God exists in the space between people—in our connections and conversations. Nowhere is this more accurate than in the connection a poet has to his/her reader, it seems. When we read a poem we cherish, or when we write poems that others love, we tap into the radical symmetry of poetry. Continue reading »
Sometimes, you need a little you-time. Here’s how. Continue reading »
How much can outsiders really be a part of a specific musical culture? Does your background determine whether or not you are qualified or allowed to enter the rap game? Prominent theorists like bell hooks warn about the dangers of appropriation of black culture. hooks also speaks at length about essentialism and calls for a more varied picture of what makes up black culture. Continue reading »
Why did Esme Patterson write her album? “I feel like a lot of the work I create is stuff that I would want to find. If I discovered an album like this, I’d be pumped!” Get ready for this beautiful, conceptual album. Continue reading »
Why do so many teenagers turn to Satan? I did, because I was lonely. It filled a void in me that was created by lack of discipline and proper schooling. It’s common, but here’s why I think it’s a good thing. Continue reading »
If you’re going to read anything this year, read Gregory Crosby’s chapbook, Spooky Action at a Distance. It is everything I look for in a poetry collection. Continue reading »
What is our society’s obsession with sickness about? Why is our society fascinated with so-called “trainwrecks,” women who do not engage in “acceptable” healthy behavior, women who may be struggling or dealing with an addiction or disorder and dare to not hide it from the public eye? Their afflictions and corresponding behaviors are simultaneously glamorized and demonized by the media. They are urged to seek help while magazines make a living mocking their fallen moments. Continue reading »