I read some poems recently at Modern Methods Brewery Company in Warren. It was a nice crowd, with some friends there. After a handful of us read, there was an open mike session, so college kids and even those that had already been featured could read again. I always reflect on this kind of experience, how it benefits or doesn't benefit my work as a poet and writer. It's an interesting experiment for sure, to step out into a public arena with a page of what has been written to be read silently. There's work to be read and work to be performed. The first couple of pieces I read I wrote keeping the Warren gig in mind. The other poems, from my collection, Singing in the Dark , would fall into the category of poems written to be read as they are deeply personal, about family, loss and roots. It's not my favorite experience to be in front of an audience, mostly because most of my life I've trained myself to be a good audience to others. It always feels awkward to be cent
