On Connecting
It’s a privilege to be able to share full HD video of the event at Dormouse Theatre in Kalamazoo. (The original video on my YouTube channel has labeled chapters to let you jump from poem to poem easily). Below, I’ve also shared a brief reflection on some lessons I learned this year. I am incredibly grateful for everyone who attended and supported this work that means so much to me.
On Connecting
Even before Trample & Sew and News of Need went to press I intended to organize public readings. I envisioned sharing live moments with listeners through the characters, places, and ideas in my writing. I hoped that reading directly to people would share with them some of the thrill I get as a writer discovering each poem’s words and images, tensions and resolutions.
But, like most people, I had never organized a reading tour. I had a packed schedule managing editing and proofreading, designing layouts, making a website, alongside working full time and much else besides. It was a humbling experience that made clear I had to approach the process as an eager and open beginner. I decided to memorize a few poems, just for fun.
Over seven readings I learned that listeners value a helpful amount of personal biography and information on my creative process but most enjoy hearing the poems themselves. People consistently enjoyed being suspended inside the unique space of a live reading, and never more than during recited works. When reciting I am able to embody the writing fully and take listeners on a journey with me. I explored many aspects of the performances such as speed, emphasis, and tone.
Most importantly I learned a tremendous amount about what I could contribute through readings. I was guaranteed, in a sense, to succeed because of my goals. Before setting out I had a flash of inspiration to adopt a practice of gratitude from my daily writing routine. I made a moment before each reading to pray that my efforts could somehow be of service to each listener.
Success showed up as new insights, knowledge, and a profound new understanding that words matter; personal connectedness matters.
By the numbers, I also met my expectations. Approximately 100 people attended seven events. About 55 books were sold, mostly to people I hadn’t met before. I didn’t get any flat tires and was greeted warmly in every community I visited. A few dozen people connected with me on social media and signed up for the mailing list.
I am truly very grateful for each reader and listener and look forward to an expanded tour in 2026.
Stay tuned for details!
