I don’t often adhere to the traditional poetic rules and structures. I prefer to write what comes as it comes. However, there is something to be said about writing with restrictions. Restrictions, be they self-imposed, or derived because of the kind of poetry that you are writing, can boost creativity. I think that one of the largest factors causing ‘writers block’ is having too much choice. When faced with a blank page and no prompts or guidance, most newer writers stumble and become overwhelmed. But when they are told to write a haiku on the topic of a cloudy sunrise, suddenly they get some inspiration – the result may or may not be ‘good’ but something is infinitely better than nothing.…

There is a risk for poets, and all artists, to believe they need to be drunk or high to be creative. And whilst I have had some amazingly creative thoughts whilst stoned, rarely, if ever have, I produced anything of worth in that mental state. Obviously everyone is different, but I prefer to work with the creative energy sober, for two main reasons: health and practicality…