In order for poetry to exist there has to be not-poetry to contrast it with.

I like to look at the interface between words and pictures and wonder about which comes first, a sort of chicken-or-egg type of question.

The inner and outer, the visible and invisible, the abstract and concrete - you've got to get the balance right (not that I do, but it's something to aim for).

I've always liked language and been a big reader. I always loved books as objects. My favorite time of year as a child was September when we'd go buy all kinds of notebooks and pens and markers for school. I think I wanted to be a writer just so I'd be able to fill up all those pages.

It's my experience that people write better when they feel at ease and free to experiment, rather than being in a competitive, hypercritical atmosphere. There are always a few students who want me to be tough or harsh, but it's really not my style.

I think the more stability a person has, the more they can follow esoteric or intellectual pursuits.

The earth has always supported me in all my endeavors. I trust it.