Inspiration may be hiding just out of sight, but alas, it's can always be found again. Wilda Morris discusses just this and more in today's chat about her pages penned in pandemic.
What does the pandemic currently look like in your city?
The numbers have been bleak lately. Not as many people are taking walks because the weather has been cold and damp.
What are some favorite books you've read during quarantine?
I'm reading Typee by Herman Melville and a lot of poetry. Poets I'm reading include Mary Jo Balistreri, Caroline Johnson, and Billy Collins. I'm also trying to catch up on the stack of magazines that have accumulated.
Have there been any movies, tv shows, podcasts, etc. that have helped keep you at ease the past few months?
Online poetry workshops have helped keep me at ease.
How has the pandemic affected your writing?
I was doing a lot of my writing at Panera, and miss being able to hang out there to write. The book I almost finished has been sort of lost in the shuffle. On the other hand, I've written more haiku while taking almost daily walks.
Are there any projects you are excited to keep working on? If so, can you give us any details (no spoilers please!) about your project?
I've almost finished a manuscript, THE UNAPPROVED UNCLE, and need to put the finishing touches on it.
If you haven't been able to write, are there any projects you're hoping to work on next?
I have enough poems for several more themed collections.
If asked ten years from now what the past few months have taught you about being a writer, what would come to mind?
Don't let external conditions keep you from writing. If you hit a hard spot, sign up for a poetry workshop. Keep reading, and letting what you read serve as inspiration.
Have there been any fellow writers or people in your life who have helped you stay connected during the pandemic?
I belong to several poetry groups that help keep me motivated, and also write on Zoom with one good friend.
Where is your favorite place to write? Has this changed during the pandemic?
My favorite place to write is the Panera near my home, where they make my coffee and prepare my noon meal. Except during lunch time, they are not crowded, so I can spread out my work. Before the pandemic, they called me their writer in residence, and knew my name. I'm eager to get back there.
ABOUT Wilda Morris
Wilda Morris, Workshop Chair, Poets and Patrons of Chicago and past President, Illinois State Poetry Society, has published over 600 poems in anthologies, webzines, and print publications. She has won awards for formal and free verse and haiku, including the 2019 Founders’ Award from the National Federation of State Poetry Societies. Her second poetry book, Pequod Poems: Gamming with Moby-Dick was published in 2019. Her poetry blog features a monthly contest for other poets.
To learn more, follow Wilda and her writing journey at her website on Facebook.
Thanks for chatting, Wilda!
