Recently I have been using the Goat Island book of creative exercises to spark the muse. I have mentioned it before, I was given a copy by a friend, who swears by it as a means of unlocking creativity. It is certainly sending me in different directions to my normal process.
JUMP IN THE AIR WITH BOTH FEET OFF THE GROUND AND STAY SUSPENDED FOR FIVE MINUTES
feet off the floor
the spine curves
centre of gravity alters
and here you are
rocking in the breeze
zero ballast
your shirt your sail
tack into the wind
above the pavement
there is now no rule book
all will become clear
I like the idea of being weightless and floating down the road like a sailing ship. There is a dream like feel to the concept. This second poem is about a print I have had for many years.
WATCH THE BACK OF YOUR HEAD
she had stood in the bathroom
early digital camera over her shoulder
the trick if there was one
minimise the lens
maximise her back her neck
that half of the head she never sees
photoshopped in A-Level art class
etched on a plate
printed on art quality paper
and sold to me over twenty years ago
The direction to watch the back of your head could have involved physicality, mirrors or a periscope, but it reminded me of the print. I am always unsure about poems based on art works as without the illustration it is difficult for the poem to stand alone.
Here's Iron and Wine with Calexico.
Until next time.