Interview with Poet, Kinga Iwanicki

I’m always in awe of writers who allow their imagination to flourish through the work – just like that of the poetry of Kinga Iwanicki. I’ve reviewed Kinga’s work before and found it to be very profound, thoughtful and honest.  No doubt Kinga’s answers throughout the interview reflect the care she takes in writing her poetry. I’d like to invite you all to follow Kinga on Instagram @therosycrucifixion .

RMMW:  Have you ever been creatively blocked? If yes, how did you overcome it?

KI: I have a rather unique relationship with creativity, I allow it to come to me. it is a mental space, an openness. Of course, there at times when I sit down to write and nothing comes, in those instances I just sit quietly with myself and enjoy the peace of that moment.

RMMW:  We all have an inner critic; how do you contend with yours?

KI: This can be rather challenging for me, as the idea of \”perfection\” sits heavy. But as I\’ve come to realize, perfection or the idea of, is
something subjective. For me, finding an okayness within the imperfections, whatever those may be in that moment is the biggest overcoming.

RMMW: Do you have any artist rituals before starting a new poem?

KI: Not really. If I\’m lucky then a feeling rolls through me and I\’m able to make peace with it and let it go quickly. If I\’m stuck within the feeling then I\’ll pull out my favorite writers and begin to jot down words that appeal to me, usually ones evoking the very feeling that is lodged in my throat. Or I\’ll pull out a line that speaks to me and through that found inspiration something comes.

RMMW: What is your first writing memory?

KI: I always had a dream journal when I was little. I suppose that the fascination with the other elements of reality and how they shape us and we them have always played a role.

RMMW: What do you feel good poetry ought do?

KI: Evoke an emotion, a feeling, a connection. Not to the author but to ourselves.

RMMW: What is your favourite poetic style to write in?

KI: I don\’t have a set style of preferred structure. For me, it is just whatever flows through.

RMMW: What prompted you to write poetry?

KI: You know, it was quite random. I had always enjoyed expression through words, but poetry just happened at a specific time in my life. And through that it propelled a reaction within me. It was a literal start to something so much greater, about which I am still learning about.

RMMW:  How do you manage your work life balance?

KI: I\’m complete shit at it. Whoever decided that working 40 hour weeks was a thing needs to die an excruciating death. But in all seriousness, I take time to myself as much as I can. Weather early in the morning or late evening. My well being depends on my indulgence into creativity. Without it, I\’m no good to anyone, trust me.

RMMW: I still remember your ouroboros poem, it\’s my utmost favourite.  What is your favourite piece written by you?

KI: Thank you!!! It means so much to me if someone finds connection in anything that I write. As for a favorite of mine, I don\’t have one. It would vary with mood I suppose.

RMMW: What do you feel is the poet’s role in today\’s society?

KI: To bring about connection to what matters, by touching upon things unspoken, bruised and nameless, who lie withered at the bottom of some dumpster outside of your grandmother\’s apartment on 7th Street. Poets are the mothers and fathers of change, openness and love.

RMMW: Where do you write?

KI: Literally anywhere. My idea setting would be somewhere peaceful and in nature, away from distractions. Though, sometimes, it is the distractions that inspire. So here we are.

RMMW: What is the relationship between your speaking and writing voice?

KI: My speaking voice is very direct and present in the now. My writing is the undercurrent of my emotional self. It is the truest depiction of who I am at that moment in time.

RMMW: If you had a superpower what would it be?

KI: To awaken everyone\’s third eye and give them the ability to realize that everything we search for lies within. That they are the embodiment of love, and that the whole universe is love. Only through LOVE and self awareness can we propel change and begin to heal.