Following is an interview with Robert Pomerhn, pertaining to a new book of poetry that he is currently releasing.
How long have you been writing poetry?
Quarter of a century.
How would you describe your style of poetry?
While I tend not to compartmentalize my poetry into one particular style, I try to have an equal blend of the artistic and academic while maintaining a strong street sense. Growing up in the mid 80’s, rap music has a strong lyrical influence even on my more mature work.
Is there a certain subject matter that you gravitate towards?
My poetry seems to be a depiction of actual events without clouding the judgement of those who are reading it.
How did the pandemic influence your writings?
By far it was my most crystalized clear moment, having loads of time to hone in on my craft.
Who is your best critic?
My wife, she is honest, doesn’t sugar coat a thing, gives me a panoramic overview and allows me to actually salvage some of the work that would end up in the trash if I had it my way. She helps me see my successes when I struggle to see them.
What time of day do you tend to write?
Not a set time. I gain inspiration on many long runs, even when I run with friends. I am able to sort things out on my runs.
Do you carry a scratch pad with you?
Yes, usually napkins, ripped pieces of paper or whatever I can write on when I feel the need. If I don’t write it down immediately it will be lost, forever.
You just published a book of poems, visual art and collage. Are you an artist as well as a poet?
Yes. I’d like to see my collages as album covers some day for some of my favorite bands such as The Smashing Pumpkins, and Dinosaur Jr.
Where do you draw inspiration?
The inspiration for this particular book is my son. I was able to include his work in this publication. You will find it towards the end of the book. He truly is the future. He is ridiculously talented, you’ll see.
Aside from the book, do you work on other visual art projects?
Yes. Some of my pieces are hanging in homes. Those pieces I was able to create on wood slabs. Very cool to see. Sometimes my work takes on a life of its own, other times you can see a “likeness” to rock stars (ie: Dylan) or a children’s fairy tale (ie: Alice through the Looking Glass)
On the book cover, when you say spoken word, does that mean that certain poems are meant to be read out loud, or in front of people?
I think those that have the ability to hear my work in front of them live will have a more intimate appreciation of the words that are on the page.
Do you perform spoken word?
Yes. Future endeavors include hosting and performing a series of live events through Villa Maria College with a floor space that is accommodating, spacious, and inviting to new listeners as well as the seasoned listeners
The image on the cover… can you tell me about it?
Always 100% handmade, never digitally enhanced. Much of the finished work comes from the discarded materials of properly placed old magazines. The scissor-like female figure not only signifies the thousands of cuts and pastings that went on to finish this book but also the muse visiting me for bits of inspiration.
How many pages is the book?
103
Who printed it?
Highest Hurdle Press, Chicago, IL. The owner/operator… I would easily call him the patron saint of the Buffalo poetry scene.
Is it currently for sale?
Yes
What does it cost and where can people purchase it?
The book cost $25.00 plus shipping. If interested you can email me at pomerhn.robert@gmail.com. I am also working on a book release in Toronto.
Anything else?
I’m a kid from Buffalo. Lived on Shirley Ave in my early years then moved to Cheektowaga. I love basketball. Played on every court here. Im often called “Dirk” because of my likeness to Dirk Nowitzki. I can talk trash with the best of them on the court. To be fair, that probably set me up for spoken word.
My attempt at poetry has always been an artist’s struggle to not only mean what I say but to live out those words and honor their meaning. While all of these poems are merely a cheap approximation of what I’m feeling I’ve done my best to pass them onto the world and appreciate their merit.
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