Often we contextualize events like a dream, allowing the line between real and unreal to disappear. Olaitan Humble's poem, "Benzodiazepines" explores this notion, and is now available to read in the print collective! Until then, I'm excited to chat about Olaitan's pages penned in pandemic.
What does the pandemic currently look like in your city?
The pandemic heavily affected almost every aspects of our lives. First, there was a total lockdown which spanned a month in which people are especially advised to remain at their homes. Second, it constrained people to move around with masks. Till now, my university is yet to physically resume academic activities. So yes, the pandemic took a huge toll here.
What are some favorite books you've read during quarantine?
Einstein's Brain by Mark Olshaker. The Poetry of Yevgeny Yevtoshenko, translated with an introduction from George Reavey.
Have there been any movies, tv shows, podcasts, etc. that have helped keep you at ease the past few months?
I have done away from all these funnily for reasons unknown to me. I spent quite some time with my phone playing mobile games however.
How has the pandemic affected your writing?
Positively, honestly. I have been able to deal with abstractions better than before. I never thought I could publish that much poetry in such a span of time. I also wrote articles for different media outlets. I must say, the pandemic helped me in a way to keep to some inner peace which in turn manifested some incredible imaginations for my mind's eye.
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?
Currently, I'm working a chapbook length collection of poems. Hopeful that I find a publisher soon.
If asked ten years from now what the past few months have taught you about being a writer, what would come to mind?
The past few months have further reinstated my belief in ends justifying the means. I must say that the pandemic made it possible for me to think about submitting my work to literary journals, and now I've got some publications, won some awards and prizes, and a Pushcart nomination.
Have there been any fellow writers or people in your life who have helped you stay connected during the pandemic?
Very very well. I'm forever indebted to friends I met on Twitter who never got tired of sharing beneficial writing tips and opportunities. The list is endless, but I'm grateful to them all. I also need to shoutout my family over at The Deadliners, a group of young enthusiastic writers offering support to one another. Their influence has been unparalleled.
Is there anything that excites you about the changes being incited in the publishing world in light of recent events?
Yes, pretty much but most importantly is, many publishers are now offering a wider space for BIPOC writers which is a beautiful thing to see. What a time to be alive.
Is there anything that worries you about the changes being incited in the publishing world in light of recent events?
Yes, I'm worried about the curatorial nature of some publishers. It is one thing to publish child abusers, it is another to publish well-known child abusers. Makes me want to question our moral compass, if there is any at all.
Are you a plotter, pantser, or somewhere in between? Has this changed during the pandemic?
This really wowed me. I think it all boils down to the content in question. I usually employ freewriting for poems, so I'd say pantser. For articles, however, I set out a writing plan to piece together the grand puzzles of related ideas.
Where is your favorite place to write? Has this changed during the pandemic?
The rooftop at my house, definitely. I love to write there. That hasn't changed during the pandemic.
If you curated a playlist for writing life in the pandemic, what top 5 songs would be on your list?
1.) “Ti Amo” by Umberto Tozzi
2.) “Little Jeannie” by Elton John
3.) “Via Orlando” by Monwa & Sun
4.) “Unknown Soldier” by Fela Kuti
5.) “Resist the Temptation” by Tupac Shakur.
Without too many spoilers, what is your favorite poem you've written since the pandemic began?
“Mother's Dove III,” published in Doubleback Review, Issue 2:2.
While the future is just as unknowable as ever, what is something you are most looking forward to this year?
A writing fellowship at best. I am willing to learn more about creative writing.
Is there any advice you would give to young writers during this time?
I am a young writer myself, so I often tell myself to keep doing what I do best, and to keep getting better at it. To keep writing against all odds.
ABOUT Olaitan Humble
Olaitan Humble is a writer, editor at The Lumiere Review and reader at Bandit Fiction. A Pushcart Prize nominee, his work appears/forthcoming in Chiron Review, HOBART, Ethel Zine, Opia, Luna Luna Magazine, & Doubleback Review, among others. He is currently an undergraduate at the University of Lagos.
To learn more, follow Olaitan and his writing journey at his website and on Twitter and Instagram.
Thanks for chatting, Olaitan!
