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The Mercury News recently interviewed the Vermont poet Megreynoldswho is one of the judges Vermont Poetry Out Loud Semifinalist. She is also a board member imitation poem, A nonprofit organization that promotes poetry programs in Vermont.
Reynold’s first exposure to poetry was as a child, along with Shel Silverstein, Dr. Seuss and especially Paul Fleischman’s “Happy Noise: Poetry of Two Voices.“
“I’m really drawn to the potential for humor and lyricism in poetry. I love the images and the way the world reflects back on itself,” says Reynolds.
Many things influenced Reynolds to start writing poetry, although it has always played a prominent role in her life. Fresh out of college, Reynolds said she worked a demanding, low-paying teaching job that left little time and space for a creative life. To combat this, Reynolds continued to write poems on post-it notes and stick them between the pages of the book she was reading.
She chose poetry as her creative outlet because it was the only form of expression she could integrate into her life at the time.
“They exist in my life as seeds. Now they have taken on everything other than family and friends. Poetry feels like a native species that is only now flourishing because I’ve chopped down everything I can ,” Reynolds said.
Reynolds’ suggestion for writing poetry for people who don’t know where to start is to read everything.
“Find some poets you admire so disgustingly envious, read everything they write, read poets they love and call their influences, find out where they’re published, and explore those poets . . . if You’re with one of your poems — leave it alone and come back to it; don’t be afraid to walk away from it,” Reynolds said.
Like many poets, Reynolds’ poetry has changed a lot throughout her career, as has Reynolds’ upbringing.
“It’s more direct, more confident, more heartbreaking and upbeat. I have more to say because I have more experience. I’ve earned it over time, and I’m still getting it.”
a version of this story First published in BFA-St.’s student newspaper, The Mercury. Albans. Zoe Walent is a BFA student and Mercury writer.
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