Describe your creative space. Do you work at home, in public spaces, etc.?

My creative space would be my head.  I have notebooks in all my bags.  If something strikes me, I’m ready.

What kind of materials do you use? Do you write by hand or type? What is your favorite writing utensil?

I like coil bound notebooks.  But I have used paper napkins, envelopes, post its.  I always write out the poem.  When I’m ready, I type it up.  I prefer a pen over a pencil.  But when needed, will use whatever.

What is your routine for writing?

I wish I had a routine.  But I don’t.  I write when something sparks me.

How long have you been writing? When did you start writing?

I have been writing poems since I was 14.  So almost 40 years.  I didn’t realize I was a poet until I was an adult.

Who is your intended, or ideal, audience? Who do you write for?

I write for myself.  I hope people will like my poems.

What inspires you to write? If you are blocked, what do you do?

I am inspired by little moments.  A teaser of a memory.  A bolt of lightning.  I try not to think about it too much if it’s been a while since I`ve written.  I always have things rolling around in my head.  I have a notebook full of sentences that intrigued me.  Things I heard in a movie or in conversation.  Sometimes I will pull it out and see what strikes me.

What is your advice to aspiring writers?

My advice would be to own it.  By that I mean, say “I am a poet.”  or “I am a writer.”  Whatever it is that you are.  To me the importance is not if I am published or not (although I always love when I am), it is more about the satisfaction of a good poem.  One that I know is good.

Check out Laura’s work in Volume 3, Issue 2.