Douglas Cole's Literary Journey: Poetry, Prose, and Beyond
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Chapter 1: The Art of Writing
In the realm of literature, the journey of crafting three novels is a formidable task. However, seeking representation from literary agents can feel even more daunting. For poets, the challenges seem to multiply. If you identify as a poet or a writer, stories of success can be uplifting, providing motivation during tough times.
Take inspiration from Douglas Cole, a Seattle-based author who has successfully published six poetry collections along with an award-winning novel titled The White Field. Beyond his literary works, Cole is an accomplished screenwriter and a contributor to various magazines and journals. You can find more about his diverse endeavors on his official website.
Moreover, Cole is also an educator. He has two new books scheduled for release this year, including The Cabin at the End of the World.
Section 1.1: The Nature of Poetry and Prose
Douglas Cole believes that creating a poem and composing a prose piece share similarities. Both require delving into language to encapsulate emotions, images, moments, or ideas. The goal is to open up pathways to explore the imagination and the tangible world, allowing language to serve as both a vessel and a record of one's experiences.
A professor once remarked that if poetry lacks meter, what are traditionally termed 'stanzas' should actually be called 'paragraphs,' questioning the existence of prose poetry. Yet, it's widely accepted that prose poems do exist. Consider the works of Edson, Forsche's "The Colonel," Charles Simic, and Baudelaire. These examples illustrate that prose poetry has a rightful place in literature.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Influence of Various Literary Forms
Cole reflects on the Black Mountain School of poetry, where the line is seen as a single breath. This raises the question: does a prose poem retain its identity as poetry if it lacks breath-controlled lines? The essence of a poem can still be captured in prose form, as exemplified in Cole's The Cabin at the End of the World. While it may appear as prose on the surface, it embodies poetic elements.
In The Triggering Town, Hugo emphasizes the significance of line beginnings and endings, focusing on impactful nouns or vivid images. Cole echoes this sentiment, encouraging writers to consider the narrative and dreamlike quality of their work. His prose poems often venture into surreal territories, aiming to awaken readers from their everyday routines.
Section 1.2: Dual Approaches to Language
Cole discerns two distinct methods of engaging with language: one that is exploratory and fluid, and another that is grounded and stable. Prose poetry, characterized by its solid structure, offers a unique experience. After a refreshing cup of coffee, the mind is primed to embrace the concise world of a prose poem, revealing glimpses of the extraordinary within the mundane.
The essence of prose poems, drama, and screenwriting lies in the intricate interplay with language. Cole believes that language has the power to unveil the unseen and facilitate thoughts that transcend ordinary perceptions. It serves as a conduit to explore deeper realms of understanding, akin to what Plato describes—a means to glimpse what lies beyond the visible world.
What type of writing resonates with you?
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