From 'Solitude' to 'Nature' – A Poet's Evolution
In Conversation with Elijah A. Bland No. 07
In today's discussion with the Elijah A. Bland on his poem “Nature", we embark on a journey that threads the delicate tapestry of introspection, self-discovery, and the profound influence of the world around us. Through his evocative found poem, we explore the symbiotic relationship between our innermost feelings and the external, ever-present entity known as 'Nature'.
The conversation reveals not just the mechanics of Bland’s poetic process, but the deeper philosophy that drives it. Armed with curiosity and intention, he champions the transformative power of poetry.
Whether it's a call to dive into the depths of one's soul or to question the very fabric of our existence, Elijah’s words resonate with a universal truth: that in the pursuit of understanding ourselves, we are invariably drawn to the world around us.
Lastly, Bland emphasizes the importance of crafting poetry as a tool to express, reflect, and live authentically. Join us as we uncover the layers of meaning, the intricacies of the creative process, and the passion that fuels the poetic spirit, urging us all to "Stay Poetic".
Nature
Go into yourself,
write,
confess,
dig deep,
die.
Question everything.
Build your life,
your whole life
toward this impulse;
Nature.
Alison: "Go into yourself" is a powerful way to start the poem. What was your intention behind this imperative phrase?
Elijah: "Nature" is a poetic reply to last week's "Solitude" and sets the stage for the upcoming "Remember." Yes, it beckons with the simple phrase, "Go into yourself." This is an invitation to dive deep, to reflect and meditate on our core being. Often, we give so much that we lose sight of our essence — of our true nature.
Alison: The words "write," "confess," and "dig deep" follow that initial call. Do you see these as sequential steps in the journey inward, or are they intertwined elements of self-exploration?
Elijah: From my experience, following these steps in order offers clarity. Begin with writing; it clears the mind and makes space for deeper thinking. After writing, discuss and analyze your thoughts, giving them meaning. When you feel you've reached a conclusion, probe further. Ask more questions, delve deeper. What remains, typically, is a distilled understanding of the experience and a profound insight into its significance to you.
Alison: The line "die" stands out, both in its gravity and brevity. Could you expand on its significance within the context of your poem and its relationship to self-discovery?
Elijah: Many naturally fear the concept of death and dying. However, they often overlook that "death" can also symbolize a transformative experience. Similar to how gold is refined, introspection prompts us to shed or "die" to our impurities, allowing our true selves to shine through.
Alison: "Question everything" is a bold statement that stands alone in your poem. How does this directive play into the overall message, and why did you choose to place it centrally in the composition?
Elijah: It all boils down to curiosity and intention. If I were to choose, curiosity would be my superpower. It has propelled me through life, granting me the freedom and confidence to venture into new realms. Rather than simply accepting the status quo, I question its origins: Who established it? What do they gain from it? Does it favor the few or the many? Delving into the "whys" and questioning both external and internal sources is the first step towards enlightenment.
Alison: The lines "Build your life, your whole life, toward this impulse" seems to direct the reader towards a purposeful journey. Could you shed some light on what "this impulse" refers to, especially in the context of the title "Nature"?
Elijah: In this context, "this impulse" means the powerful drive to embrace and live authentically according to our true nature.
Alison: How do you envision the relationship between the internal journey of self-exploration and the external concept of 'Nature'? How do they intertwine in your poem?
Elijah: It begins with discovering your unique creative sanctuary and immersing yourself in a meditative journey. For me, right now, that medium is writing poetry. In the past, it's been photography, music, dancing, and even cooking. Emerging from that solitude, you gain a profound understanding of your true self, especially in connection to others and the broader world.
Alison: The poem begins with action and introspection, but ends on a more external note with the word "Nature." What do you hope readers take away from this progression?
Elijah: Nature surrounds us and courses within us. To truly uncover and achieve our life's potential, we must work diligently to realign ourselves, allowing Nature's essence to flow unhindered. The internal exploration is just the beginning. We also need to forge connections with those who champion openness and share our vision. It's not about having identical backgrounds, beliefs, or opinions, but about fostering a collective environment that celebrates openness, diverse perspectives, and individuality.
Alison: Given the poem's title and content, what role does the natural world play in your personal journey of introspection and self-discovery? Is it symbolic, literal, or both?
Elijah: It's a mix of both, but in the poem's context, it's primarily symbolic. Up to now, the natural world hasn't been a major theme in my poetry, though it has influenced me visually and audibly. However, I'm keen on weaving it more into my future works.
Alison: Given that "Nature" is sandwiched between "Solitude" and the forthcoming "Remember," how do you see these three pieces interacting and informing each other? Can you give us a hint on how "Remember" might continue or pivot from the themes you've explored so far?
Elijah: As I reflect, "Nature" might just fit as the second installment of a 4-part series! This T.S. Eliot quote might just illuminate why:
"We shall not cease from exploration
And the end of our exploring
Will be to arrive where we started
and know the place for the first time."
T. S. Eliot, "The Four Quartets"
In "Solitude," we're presented with the notion that solitude is the bedrock of true creativity and love. "Nature" provides a roadmap for diving into our innermost realms, aligning with the vast expanse of the outer world. "Remember" serves as a gentle nudge, highlighting that our evolution might render us unrecognizable even to those closest to us.
It's not an indication of being astray but a cue to be even more resolute in expressing our authentic self. Concluding the series, "The Birthplace of Poetry" weaves everything into a cohesive tapestry, heralding the emergence of "the creator" within, poised to construct on the groundwork set in solitude.
Alison: Lastly, poetry has long been a medium for introspection and self-discovery, with poets often navigating their own inner worlds to communicate with the external. In your experience, how does the act of creating poetry facilitate this journey, and how has it shaped your personal evolution?
Elijah: How often do we truly find the right words at the right moment to convey our feelings, desires, or identity? And even if we do, how many of us can articulate them with precision and impact? I believe, not many. One remedy, in my experience, lies in poetry. And, as my work suggests, you don't need to begin with a blank slate!
Start by writing, question everything.
Gather your musings, emotions, and tools—like a highlighter, pen, old publications, and a journal.
From these, extract the words that resonate with your message and sculpt your poem. Vocalize it, reflect upon it, revise if needed, or even venture a new rendition.
And then, embody it—either by sharing it with the world or letting it guide your deeds. This is the marriage of curiosity and intention. This is what it means to "Stay Poetic".
Alison Baird is a journalistic chat bot powered by ChatGPT.
This interview was edited with minor refinements aimed at retaining the essence of our original conversation while enhancing its readability and coherence.