Whenever I get a chance, I show young people a video of Oprah talking about gratitude. She tells of starting each day with being thankful for something At least 3 things. She then tells us how you will end up better off focusing on the 2 dollars in your pocket instead of the money you … Continue reading Poems get to the Takeaway
writing
A Book Contract Bob Newhart & Coincidence
There has to be a purpose to coincidences. I just experienced two and they are sort of connected. To be fair, not earth- shattering coincidences like I accidentally sold the gun that someone used to shoot me. But interesting (I hope). I got offered a contract for a novel from All That Matters Press. There … Continue reading A Book Contract Bob Newhart & Coincidence
Memorable Phrase: ‘Lean into Your Mistake’ – My Wedding Vows Story
Guys have trouble not saying stuff. Oftentimes, it is not out of malice, but just out of having something too good to say and wanting the attention of saying it. I think I am pretty good at coming up with one-liners. My wife does not appreciate them and so I do try not to say … Continue reading Memorable Phrase: ‘Lean into Your Mistake’ – My Wedding Vows Story
The Similarities Between Visual Artists and Poets: Finding Joy and Gratitude in Creativity
I think there are similarities between visual artists and poets. And I understand if the artists are a little leary of the comparison. People can knock out some words that rhyme and call themselves a poet.Like this ditty, that I only read to prove the point. The time of now is fleeting My love is … Continue reading The Similarities Between Visual Artists and Poets: Finding Joy and Gratitude in Creativity
Writing is About Sharing
Writing is a great way to share with important and/or sad things in your life. Even in fiction it is brave, though you can separate yourself by taking yourself out of it and adapt it to your characters. Here is an excerpt from my novel Shattered. MY main character is a tall, fat comic in … Continue reading Writing is About Sharing
AI is good, but will it be good enough?
I tried Google's AI "Gemini." I asked it for a description of my book The Tao of Apathy. It actually nailed it. So it performed very well. I have used AI for things like giving me a draft of my bio or a book blurb. It has given me some interesting writing. I think AI … Continue reading AI is good, but will it be good enough?
The Power of Poetic Editing: Discovering New Perspectives Through Revision
I was at the open mic at the Sadoff Center. In Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. A person new to poetry read a letter she had written to herself as part of a recovery exercise. I asked her if she was surprised to find that she had positive and encouraging things to say. She said yes. … Continue reading The Power of Poetic Editing: Discovering New Perspectives Through Revision
Auburn: Embracing Creativity Through Color Word Riff
The poem "Auburn" reflects a character's deep desire for an end to her suffering, paralleling the color's meaning in an exercise. The exercise evoked the character of Auburn, encapsulating her struggles. The creative process led to a unique concept, illustrating the disintegration of the character's life experiences. The workshop was an enjoyable experience.
The Poetry of Identity: Embracing Creativity and Artistry
I have over 60 pieces of writing published and about half of those are poems. I have always written poetry, but only began submitting poetry for publication to build a resume. It was not until I was named the poet laureate before I called myself a poet. So I like to remind myself and others … Continue reading The Poetry of Identity: Embracing Creativity and Artistry
To Be Read or Spoken?
A fellow poet who goes to several open mics a week, posed this: Wondering if you could give me your thoughts on the difference, we are seeing on the poetry scene right now between the written word and spoken word performance. My response (off the cuff) was this: My poems end up changing as I … Continue reading To Be Read or Spoken?
Thomas Cannon Author 