In times of loss or heartbreak or inner turmoil, turning to the page may be the only escape. Sam Smith discusses just this and more in today's chat about her pages penned in pandemic.
What does the pandemic currently look like in your city?
We are in a second period of severe restrictions as the UK government attempt to slow the transmission of the virus.
What are some favorite books you've read during quarantine?
Mary Ann Sate, Imbecile by Alice Jolly. Hamnet by Maggie O'Farrell. Grief is The Thing with Feathers by Max Porter.
Have there been any movies, tv shows, podcasts, etc. that have helped keep you at ease the past few months?
“The Personal History of David Copperfield” directed by Armando Iannucci.
How has the pandemic affected your writing?
Trying to look after yet losing both my parents as a result of COVID has been a very traumatic experience. At times, writing was the only way I could try and make sense of my inner turmoil.
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 hope to work towards a collection of writings by my Dad and myself, as a tribute to love and relationship. I read his 'mutterings' to him as he was dying , and for the first time shared with him some of mine. He gave me permission to share his work, and encouraged me to share mine, so here I am!
If asked ten years from now what the past few months have taught you about being a writer, what would come to mind?
Write for yourself, but don't be scared to share your work. Revisit, Review and Revise. Trust Yourself!
Have there been any fellow writers or people in your life who have helped you stay connected during the pandemic?
Anna Saunders (poet) through the Cheltenham Poetry Festival.
Are you a plotter, pantser, or somewhere in between? Has this changed during the pandemic?
A bit of each! Hasn't really changed.
Where is your favorite place to write? Has this changed during the pandemic?
At a little table I have rescued from my Dad's house with the company of the the birds in my garden through the window. (Previously I would lounge on the sofa!)
If you curated a playlist for writing life in the pandemic, what top 5 songs would be on your list?
1.) “Fuel Up” by Stornaway
2.) “It's About Time” by John Denver
3.) “Intertwined” by Dodie
4.) “Old Ladies Lament” by Rachel Sermanni
4.) “Maybe it's Time” by Bradley Cooper (from A Star is Born).
Without too many spoilers, what is your favorite poem you've written since the pandemic began?
“Cornflower Blind” published by Ice Floe Press.
While the future is just as unknowable as ever, what is something you are most looking forward to this year?
Being on the sea in my small boat.
Is there any advice you would give to young writers during this time?
Don't let anyone put you off developing your own style. You are coming from your own truth and that is unique. It's ok for your voice to be unique too. Be you.
ABOUT Sam Smith
Despite working as a therapist, nothing prepared Sam for the trauma of both her parents dying during the recent COVID-19 lockdown. Passionate about the power of poetry, she wrote to ‘earth her heart’ as she nursed and lost them. Sam is only just beginning to share her poems. She has recently had work published by Ice Floe Press and shortly has work featured by Safe and Sound Press. She lives and works in Hampshire, England.
To learn more, follow Sam and her writing journey on Twitter.
Thanks for chatting, Sam!
