Peace Pirate Poetry Feature #2
This month I’m sharing more about Danny Gruening, who wrote the poem in the featured image. Danny beautifully captures his setting and invites the reader to sit with their own process of transformation.
I’m always inspired when I read Danny’s words. The poetry he shares values simplicity, which allows for a variety of readers to find meaning of their own, but he often uses that simplicity as a foundation for more complex intricacies that you can only discover if you’re willing to take a broader look at yourself.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to connect with Danny, and I’m sure you will be inspired by him!
What got you interested in writing poetry?
It was pure happenstance. My wife and I love wandering the aisles at used bookstores to see what kind of gems we can uncover. A couple years ago we were shopping at a used bookstore in Boulder, Colorado and I happened to stumble across Chasers of the Light by Tyler Knott Gregson. Up to that point, I had never bought a poetry book before, but I was immediately drawn to his Typewriter Series concept. His book really struck a chord with me, and I fell in love with his work.
Before long, I got an itch to start writing my own poetry. Initially I wrote poems about my wife and surprised her every so often with a new one. Then I started using poetry as a way to connect with the world around me and clarify my memories and experiences. But even then, the poems were only seen by me, my wife, and a couple close friends. I was hesitant to share them with the wider world. The poems felt personal and I wasn’t sure what other people would think. But after some encouragement, I took the leap, and I’m so glad I did. It feels truly incredible to use words and stories to connect with the people I care about.
Are you currently working on anything you’d like to tell us about?
I’m getting ready to release a book of poems and photography called Words Between the Silence. There are moments when I strive to be present, silently observing life. And there are other times when I feel an urge to share those memories in a river of words. This book is about finding a balance of words and silence in everyday life, and I’m excited to share it with the world. It’s available for pre-sale here.
How did you come up with this beautiful poem?
First off, thank you for posting the writing prompts. It’s really helpful for people like me who struggle with wanting to feel “inspired” before being able to write. With your Autumnal Tints prompt, I kept thinking about the way the leaves seem to burn like fire in the fall. I followed my instinct down the rabbit hole, and after many revisions and edits, I ended up with this poem. I’m really glad you enjoyed it!
