Q&A with Vincent Lowry discussion

Given the group title of "Q&A," I figured it would be wise to create a thread that allows for questions and answers.

Sample question: Are you a writer?
Answer: I'm afraid so.

:)

Vincent, Poetry can take many forms- how did you decide on the form you use? and have you changed formats during your career?

Hi Rick,

First, thank you joining! You were the first to do so.

It's funny you asked that question because it was one I was thinking about at lunch today: "What is the right form for poetry."

I think it's one that just strikes an emotional chord. For example, my poem "Windows on the World" was done in a way that represented the twin towers becoming one (two sentences followed by one sentence). For me, it felt powerful that way.

Many poets have different styles, so it's whatever works for both the creator and the reader.

The aim is to create the best "word art" possible.

Since this is a Q&A group, I would like to ask: what is the most cost effective advertising for indie books?

Hi Marilyn,

I can only speak from my own experience in saying that word of mouth is the best form of advertising. You get this by first writing a great book that your friends/fans love. Then you can ask them to tell their friends.

You can do other forms of advertising, but if the book quality isn't there first, you'll have a hard time selling it.

Ask around on the Goodreads Authors/Readers group you've joined. You're bound to get additional advice on this as well.

-Vince

As a writer do you write a poem every single day?

Hi Gemma,

Some authors do write a poem a day (and even more than that), but I prefer to create one at least once a week. My schedule is a little busy, so I try my best to juggle my responsibilities.

Are you working on a book of poems?

I sure am :)

My third book will be pure poetry--probably a collection of 30 or so of my best poems.

I hope to have it out within the next year.

When you start working on a project do you ussually set up a date when the book should be finished? How do you choose your title for the book?

Suddenly this thread just comes to life! So Vincent, I just realized that you are "from" AB, NM. This September my Michigan high school buddies are holding a reunion - The Big 70 (since most of us have turned 70) - in Santa Fe, NM. We are very excited and hope the altitude doesn't kill us. Do you have any tips or favorite places to visit?

Now that's out of the way - POETRY:

1. I attended a book festival a few years back and the local poetry group was selling black t-shirts with the following message emblazoned across the front:

"POETRY - I'M ONLY IN IT FOR THE MONEY"

Isn't that a good one. Unfortunately, they didn't have my size.

2. There was a guy in Brentwood, CA, who stood on the corner of Bundy and San Vicente (sorry it's not Vincente) selling the poem of the day for $5 a pop. He must have unloaded a dozen or so in the hour I watched him. I don't know if he was getting rich or not, but he'd be out there every day doing this. He'd keep sending his wife down the street to Kinkos to make more copies.

I'll answer Gemma first.

Hi Gemma :)

When I work on a project, I usually do have a goal of when I'd like to be done with it. I currently have a goal of doing 1 book per year. I might change this to two or three, but for now 1 is good with my schedule.

Regarding the title, I like selecting words from a poem within the book that can stand out as a title. For example, my last book was a collection of short stories and poetry. The title I selected was Dreams Reign Supreme because I liked the thought that everyone's goals can come true if they work hard enough at them. You will find that title in the last stanza of the last poem in the book.

My next book title will be chosen using the same logic.

Hi Jim,

In NM, you should visit the Santa Fe downtown plaza (the art galleries are wonderful), and if you get the chance, Taos Mountain--two hours north of Santa Fe. Santa Fe Mountain is good too, so definitely plan for some hiking in the woods (it shouldn't kill you!).

That area in Brentwood is not too far from where I live. You're giving me some ideas here, Jim.

:D

Long ago I lived on Montana (the avenue, not the state, oddly enough) near the intersection with San Vicente. It was a wonderful neighborhood. It was right after the tragic murder. The Mesaluna was going through its next incarnation. The two old ladies still ran the dry cleaners around the corner. There was a newsstand next to Whole Foods. Is it still there? My brother-in-law and father-in-law lived at the other end of Montana Av, near the ocean. The Blockbuster was still in business back then. Whitey was still living in his apartment hideaway. Who knew?

Poetry first enters the heart. Beats through the innards. Hums in a low tone about the head. And some feel it in the ear as it pulses out.
Is this you?

Hi Stephanie,

I think that's a good way of putting it.

:)

when your book is complete let us know where to buy it, Vincent

Vincent when your book is done May you autograph the book for me and send it in the mail please?

Happy St. Patty's Day!

Here is the link to the book on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Surfing-Seconds...

Christine,
I'll send you an email so we can work out getting you a signed copy. :)

Oh I deleted your message by a mistake but send me the message again