Perhaps the insular way in which many experienced 2020 allowed a heightened sense of fear for the way the outside world forced its way inside without permission. Whether this was through the news or summer pests or the niggling feeling of uncertainty, each of us experienced our own version of this invasion. Marianne Brems' poem, "Uninvited," explores these ideas, and will be available to read January 2021 in the print collective! Until then, I'm excited to chat about Marianne's pages penned in pandemic.
What are some favorite books you've read during quarantine?
The Overstory and Sing For Your Life.
Have there been any movies, tv shows, podcasts, etc. that have helped keep you at ease the past few months?
Podcasts from the Upaya Zen Center.
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 am working on finding a publisher for my second chapbook.
If asked ten years from now what the past few months have taught you about being a writer, what would come to mind?
During times of difficulty, I prefer not to write about that difficulty most of the time.
Have there been any fellow writers or people in your life who have helped you stay connected during the pandemic?
My partner, the four people in my poetry workshop Zoom group.
Is there anything that worries you about the changes being incited in the publishing world in light of recent events?
It seems like everything including publishing is becoming more insecure and funding is tighter.
Are you a plotter, pantser, or somewhere in between? Has this changed during the pandemic?
A plotter. It hasn't changed too much during the pandemic but at times it has been difficult to concentrate.
Where is your favorite place to write? Has this changed during the pandemic?
My desk, but that hasn't changed.
Without too many spoilers, what is your favorite poem you've written since the pandemic began?
“A Promise Broken.”
While the future is just as unknowable as ever, what is something you are most looking forward to this year?
The publication of my first chapbook in November.
ABOUT marianne brems
Marianne Brems is a long-time writer of trade books, textbooks, and poetry. She has an MA in Creative Writing from San Francisco State University. Finishing Line Press will release her chapbook Sliver of Change in 2020. Her poems have appeared in literary journals including The Pangolin Review, La Scrittrice, The Sunlight Press, Armarolla, Foliate Oak, and The Tiny Seed Literary Journal. She lives in Northern California.
To learn more, follow Marianne and her writing journey at her website.
Thanks for chatting, Marianne!
