Member Spotlight: Lee Woodman

Why is writing important to you and why do you think it’s an important medium for the world? Writing is important to me because it brings together everything I have passion for: words, music, dance, and theater. For the world, poetry uses language to convey complex emotions and ideas, and invites readers and listeners to think about shared universal experiences.

What are your tried and tested remedies to cure writer’s block? I don’t usually experience writer’s block. It helps me to write “morning pages” à la Julia Cameron, record dreams that always present stimulating topics, or use speed prompts with a timer to grease the wheels. Poets and Writers Magazine and Two Sylvias newsletters are superb sources.

What is your favorite time to write? My favorite time to write is in the morning. I keep a regular schedule for creative output in the morning. After a break for lunch, exercise, and seeing friends, I can handle the “housekeeping” side of writing in the afternoon. That includes maintaining files, sending out applications, writing queries and thank you notes!

What’s the best piece of writing advice you’ve ever received and would like to impart to other writers? The best advice I’ve received was from Scott Wolven and Shanna McNair at The Writers Hotel program –“Get to your desk every day without fail. Butt in chair!” Even if what you write is initially garbage, you have something on paper to research, revise, and improve. It’s like exercise, consistency counts. Once you are in the habit, you can’t not do it.

What excites you most about being a writer in today’s age? Being a writer in today’s age is a challenge. Our world is so troubled; our populations are so polarized. However, poetry slows us down, makes us think, offers new perspectives. With curiosity and willingness to learn from others, regardless of their cultural or religious persuasion, we can spur real conversation, inspire change, and build strong communities.

Lee Woodman’s Colorscapes is out now with Shanti Arts LLC.