I’m beyond thrilled to present talented poet Jess Kristie to you today. We’ve known each other on Twitter and Facebook for over a year now and have supported each other all along. (Even though she tweets with hearts and flowers, I still adore her).
Her book of poetry about relationships, love, and sex touches my heart like no other. I hope you’ll agree.
Learn more about her here. Thanks so much, Jess for your time and all the fun!
Jessica Kristie Interview for Rachel Thompson
1) Please tell us how you came to publish your beautiful book of poetry Dreaming In Darkness and a bit about your background as a writer.
Around this time last year I was approached by a small publisher as I was getting my manuscript together. Although their submissions were closed, I was given a special invite to submit. I worked with an amazing editor and we got my book out there on eBook. They struggled to get my book out on paperback so I found a new publisher just recently who has obtained the rights and re-released my eBook with a new look and five new pieces as well as finally releasing the book on paperback. I am really happy with how it looks and proud of this collection of work.
I have been writing poetry since I was ten but have only taken writing up as a career the last several years. In addition, I focus on graphic design, business, marketing, editing and project management. I just recently finished a wonderful project: Inspiration Speaks, through ArtPlatform.org. You can order your copy at Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Purchases benefit ColaLife.org.
2) You write with such heartbreaking beauty about love and relationships. What inspires you?
Thank you. So much is inspiring that it’s hard to call it one thing. I have learned over the years to be inspired from everything and find beautiful things even in something that others would find painful. Life is a learning experience and I try to learn from not only mine, but other’s experiences too.
3) Are your pieces based on real life or do you create characters in your head, much like fiction? On that note, have you considered (or do you) writing fiction?
My writing pulls from my own experiences, and from those around me, and I would even consider some of it true-life-inspired fiction. My second book is fiction, but as many writers can say, it is based on a lot of true life facts and people. I also have a fiction novel in the works and I honestly plan on finishing that soon. I keep getting pulled away by other projects, so it seems to keep being put to the wayside.
4) Do you have a specific writing process?
Honestly, not really. I feel it, then I write it. I don’t need to have a certain mood set. As far as the work goes, I make sure to let it sit for at least 24 hours before posting to my blog or anywhere else. I like to look at it with fresh eyes. I also believe in knowing when to edit and knowing when to let things be. Only you can determine which is right for each piece you author. Having others take a look, or edit, is also a valuable tool for becoming a successful writer. We are not always the best judge of our own work.
5) I recently started a fun Twitter meme (aka theme) called #TellMeTuesday where people can share secrets ‘their mothers would be horrified to know.’ (Sorry, Mom.) Anything you’d like to share with our readers?
I have a thing for boobs. #TellMeTuesday
I once had a nice make-out session with my best friend’s boyfriend. #TellMeTuesday
I once had a nice make-out session with my boyfriend’s best friend. #TellMeTuesday
Me + Patron = bar-tops, singing, and dollar bills. #TellMeTuesday
6) Let’s do some Proust questions:
Favorite quality in a man?
The ability to communicate honestly.
7) Favorite quality in a woman?
Being genuine.
8) Your idea of misery?
Loneliness.
9) Happiness?
Loving yourself.
10) Favorite food?
Pizza.
11) And we must know, your favorite curse word?
Fucktard.
Love it!
Wonderful. Thanks so much for sharing these intimate moments of your life, Jess.
Here is your gorgeous book trailer. One of the best I’ve seen. I’m in love with the music as well as your beautiful book.
Check it out, folks. Then go buy her amazing book, Dreaming In Darkness. Her second book, Threads of Life, will be released March, 2012. I, for one, can’t wait.
Related articles
- Exposure Worthy – Author Jessica Kristie (magicinthebackyard.wordpress.com)
My mom is much more outlandish than I am so it would be pretty difficult to shock her. Usually it is the other way around. I will give this a go, though.
Christie's slumber party in 8th grade was boy/girl #TellMeTuesday
The book of poetry sounds lovely.
Your mom sounds like a kick, DC. I love the whole concept of #TellMeTuesday because at this point, we're all grownups, right — including our parents. 🙂
Thx for visiting Julia — I myself write a bit of poetry but Jess' stuff is so touching & seems to capture what I'm not able to say. It's really beautiful.
Thank you Rachel and thank you for having me — hearts & all ♥♥
That is from me – Jessica…. that is what I get for managing multiple SM accounts. ♥
Looks interesting will defiantly have to see if i come up with something so i can win. (sucks being unemployed lol)
Great interview, Jess, and your book looks lovely.
Bar-tops, singing, dollar bills? Oh, yes, please call me for happy hour!
@sandrabunino
Great interview and poetry book sounds very interesting. Wow, thanks for sharing:0)
I enjoyed your interview, Rachel Thompson, and Jessica’s prosey poems.
You are, however, overly modest, Rachel, when it comes to your own poetry.
Happy Valentine’s Day.
Swoon.
Fucktard, always a great descriptive. It’s closely related to Twitard (for those who have posters of Edward and Jacob, memorabilia, all of the movies, etc).