Like the sand and the oyster, it's a creative irritant. In each poem, I'm trying to reveal a truth, so it can't have a fictional beginning.

Poetry and prayer are very similar.

You can find poetry in your everyday life, your memory, in what people say on the bus, in the news, or just what's in your heart.

I always wanted a child. Being a mother is the central thing in my life.

Poets deal in writing about feelings and trying to find the language and images for intense feelings.

Every day is a gift with a child, no matter what problems you have.

I always say that I'll have a go and see whether the poem works and if it does, then fine.