Looking back on 2020, a stark reality for everyone involved the notion of uncertainty. Whether that be in terms of employment or health or day-to-day struggles with motivation or mental health or whatever, the uncertainty of the past year remains clear. Ash Slade's poem, "On This Road We Go Down," explores this journey of uncertainty, and will be available to read January 2021 in the print collective! Until then, I'm excited to chat about Ash's pages penned in pandemic.
What does the pandemic currently look like in your city?
It's tough like in most other towns. That being said, I think most people get the seriousness of the situation. Most people stay home unless going to work, school, or permitted activities. People wear masks and keep their distance like they should.
If you haven't been reading, what are some books you're most looking forward to reading?
I'm looking forward to reading poetry by Walt Whitman, Dylan Thomas, and William Carlos Williams.
Have there been any movies, tv shows, podcasts, etc. that have helped keep you at ease the past few months?
“Pawn Stars,” “Midsomer Murders,” and “The Virginian.”
How has the pandemic affected your writing?
I've had more time to engage with pen and paper. I've been working less and writing more. I've been revising pieces from three to four years ago to figure out how they can work now. I think the pandemic has made the process more deliberate for me. I play with the words in my head more than I did before. There's more drafts and redos.
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 only write a few poems at a time. No big projects like a book are in my plans. I'm working on a poem about my dad now.
If asked ten years from now what the past few months have taught you about being a writer, what would come to mind?
The most important lesson I've learned is to keep a record of key things that happen. Jot anything that comes to mind down so it's not lost in the shuffle of confusion. I've always done this, but I'm doing it more seriously now. What people overlook, I focus in on.
Have there been any fellow writers or people in your life who have helped you stay connected during the pandemic?
No fellow writers since that's my jam. That being said, I have a close friend that is my spiritual advisor in all matters. Whatever the situation, she's handing it over to God. She was a fundamental adult in my formative years, and became close friend as I've gotten older.
Where is your favorite place to write? Has this changed during the pandemic?
My favorite places to write are my bedroom and the living room while watching TV. These places stir great ideas because I'm able to sort out what's rumbling around in my head. I like my bedroom because I can sit in bed or at my shaky desk and jot it all down. My second space is the living room where I can watch TV and think out my ideas, or sit and look out the backdoor windows. I do some writing at work in between checking out customers at the register. You see interesting people and that jogs ideas too.
If you curated a playlist for writing life in the pandemic, what top 5 songs would be on your list?
1.) "Firework" by Katy Perry
2.) "Subterranean Homesick Blues" by Bob Dylan
3.) "Here I Am Lord" by Dan Schutte
4.) "Daisies" by Katy Perry
5.) The Summons by John Bell
Without too many spoilers, what is your favorite poem you've written since the pandemic began?
"On This Road We Go Down" because I think it captures the journey of uncertainty. We know we're headed somewhere, but unsure of the details about it all. I'm convinced someone is walking that road with us too. For me, that's God, but it's different for each of us.
While the future is just as unknowable as ever, what is something you are most looking forward to this year?
Christmas and New Year's. These two holidays are most important because they represent new beginnings. I think 2021 is going to be a turning point and clean slate in terms of dealing with this illness. Christmas also centers the individual on more important things like unity and peace.
Is there any advice you would give to young writers during this time?
Keep writing. Let this uncertain time inspire your pen. Don't stop writing, your voice is more important now than ever before.
ABOUT ash slade
Ash Slade lives in CT. She has written poetry for fifteen years starting at 13. In her spare time, Ash enjoys reading poetry, studying the Bible, and spending time with loved ones. Previous publications include The Blue Nib and Circus of Indie Artists: Nevermore Edition edited by Dale Bruning.
Thanks for chatting, Ash!
