An Interview with a New Memeber of Associated Content - Barbara Quinn

While I was checking out who was new here at Associated Content, I found there to be quite a plethora of poets. One of these poets happens to be Barbara Quinn.

After reading a few of her poems, you will find that she puts much effort in expressing feelings through words.

Barbara has been with Associated Content since 8/26/2008. She currently has 11 poems published with Associated Content. Her works of poetry relate with just about anyone.

Just recently I had the honor of interviewing Mrs. Quinn online. Here is the interview in its entirety.

Harold Sink: Has life experience usually been the catalyst to spur you on to write? If so, why?

Barbara Quinn: I think it could be safe to say that it has. I have found over the years, that writing allows me the opportunity to express myself in a way I could not, and at times would not do otherwise. When I write, I am allowed to be and say whatever I so choose, and can delete and rephrase when necessary!! It can be great fun, as well as spiritually healing. In my case, it aids in self-connection as well. I know myself on a much deeper level because I write.

Harold Sink: What are the biggest challenges for you as a writer?

Barbara Quinn: I am not nearly as eloquent as many of those I so admire. I struggle to find my words much of the time, especially when it comes to raw emotion. Although, those who know me well would tell you I never seem to run out of things to say!! LOL!

Harold Sink: How would you go about teaching a person that they can improve upon their writing without seeming overly critical?

Barbara Quinn: I do not believe I should be considered for such a position! I was fortunate enough to have been told by one very wise individual that what you write is neither right nor wrong. Rather, what was necessary for you to say at that very moment in time. Poetry can come in so many beautiful forms. She has also advised me that at times, cutting out much of the filler, and sticking with the basic concept or emotion can have more powerful impact without losing a reader's interest in fluff. I did so with my piece entitled 'Message Done Bottled' and was quite surprised at the outcome. I think I might even like it!

Harold Sink: Would you say you were born a poet or has that been something that developed over time?

Barbara Quinn: LOL!! Well, I suppose I've never really considered myself a poet to be honest with you. I've been writing since I was fairly young, but would scribble my thoughts and feelings down on paper, go back and edit, continue visiting the issue until feeling that I had relayed my message effectively, consider the issue closed, then quickly throw it away before anyone could find it and read it. Yes, I have been in the closet for years, and have only recently come out!! LOL! It took the support of two very special people, for me to actually allow someone to read my writing, and I'm thankful to them for encouraging me to take such a huge, terrifying step. :)

Harold Sink: Well, you must know what this next question will be. Who are some of your favorite poets, and why?

Barbara Quinn: Surprisingly enough, I don't read as much poetry as I would like. Most things I enjoy reading are along the lines of true crime, spiritual history, and all things dark and twisty. Such as 'The Instruments of Torture' by Michael Kerrigan, that travels back to biblical times and far beyond, with horrifying accounts of the methods used by mankind to control and dominate his fears. I also enjoy reading the history of our spirituality, and how we've viewed the concepts of heaven and hell, and evolved these concepts over time. It is all quite fascinating to me. I have a sizeable collection of Linda Goodman as well. Since joining AC, I have read TONS of poetry, including yours, and am having a grand time doing so!!

Harold Sink: There are probably many poets who wish to have a book made of their collective works. Is this one of your goals as a poet as well?

Barbara Quinn: I don't know that I had ever thought of it previously, but would certainly consider myself incredibly blessed if ever presented with such an opportunity!!

Harold Sink: Would you recommend that most people should read poetry? If so, why?

Barbara Quinn: I believe we all have our passions, and what trips my trigger may be completely different from the next individual. I find healing in writing, and feel that we can all benefit from inserting some form of art into our existence. It makes the world a more beautiful place to live.

Harold Sink: I enjoy poetry seemingly as much as you do. Are you one for remembering and reciting poetry, and recalling who wrote them?

Barbara Quinn: I have a steel trap for a memory...lyrically speaking, and love riding the emotion of a song or poem all the way through. For some reason, such things stay with me forever when I connect with them on a certain level.

Harold Sink: We all find at a time in our lives to write about something. Is your writing ongoing for life, or is this just a phase you are going through?

Barbara Quinn: My writing has carried me through many challenges, joys, and hardships in my life up to this point, and I hope to continue the ride for many years to come. I can't see myself giving up something that brings about so much peace and clarity.

Harold Sink: How do you come up with your ideas for writing?

Barbara Quinn: Most often, when struck with some severe emotion, I just pick up and hammer at my keyboard and see what falls out!! It has evolved into a necessary form of release, even therapy. However, I do have quite the silly side as well, and am only recently beginning to delve into the concept of writing for no other reason, than to amuse myself!!

Harold Sink: Apart from writing, how do you like to spend your free time?

Barbara Quinn: I love to spend time with my two year old son, and of course, the man of the rest of my life. :) I have been so very blessed in that arena, as well as with friendships. I also love to grow things, experience the outdoors, and hope at some point, to have the means to train and show horses again. They are another life-long passion of mine.

Harold Sink: What book or books would you recommend for a person to read who has a desire to learn how to write poetry?

Barbara Quinn: I believe each of us is touched by completely different concepts and styles of writing.

Harold Sink: Thinking back on your education, whom would you say was the one person who changed your outlook on education the most?

Barbara Quinn: It wasn't until I attended college that an individual truly struck me with a desire for knowledge. I had a chemistry professor who would kick me in the tookus on a regular basis, in effort to convince me of my talents. He truly believed that I could do anything in life I so chose to do, and was one of the few who appreciated my interesting, and very non-conventional methods of reasoning!! Many of my teachers as a child, simply considered me obstinate and impossible to conform, whereas he saw me as different, even unique. He tought me that it takes great intellect to think outside the box!! Although he may have given me slightly more credit than I deserve! :P

Harold Sink: If you were asked by a school council of what courses that their curriculum lacked, what would you suggest?

Barbara Quinn: True to life knowledge, and the importance of really knowing one's self....and at the end of the day....being okay with that, then moving on toward what you would like to accomplish in life.

Harold Sink: I know some of these questions are not what you may have expected. One person can make a difference in the world, especially a writer. What changes, if any, would you like to have some affect on in the world, as we know it?

Barbara Quinn: From the bottom of my heart, if I had the power to change one thing, I would protect and help to heal those who have been forced to endure the uglyest sides of mankind. Those parts that find twisted pleasure, at the pain and suffering of others who are weaker than they. Whereas adults have the option to make healthy decisions, children and animals remain completely vulnerable, with no choice available, other than to be at their mercy. It breaks my heart on a daily basis to see and hear of all that takes place in our so-called 'civilized' world.

Harold Sink: Normally, I don't ask so many questions about someone. Let me turn the table here. What questions do you have for me?

Barbara Quinn: I suppose the biggest would be, how you have found success doing something you truly seem to love?!

Harold Sink: It is not so easy at times, but I do my best to keep in mind that nobody is going to motivate me more than myself. Even if someone were to hold me accountable, I would more than likely hold it against them.

Harold Sink: Would you ever write a poem on humor and how you feel about it?

Barbara Quinn: I am working on some humorous concepts right now! I am having a ball reading much of the humor of the CP's here at AC, and finding myself truly inspired!!

Harold Sink: How does it feel to be getting so much attention at Associated Content so soon?

Barbara Quinn: Well, I am quite surprised, humbled, and overwhelmed at what an amazing, supportive community seems to exist here. It never occured to me that someone else might actually enjoy reading my poetry.

Harold Sink: As a writer, poet actually, how important to you is it to learn more of the English vocabulary?

Barbara Quinn: I think an extensive vocabulary is a critical part of most any communication....if one would like to sound as though they have something intelligent to say. However, I also believe there are times when too much flowerdy (sorry...Barbism) language can take away from your message. It's a delicate balance. In college, I would read sociological journals...thesaurus AND dictionary in hand...write down all the 'five dollar words' and stick them all over my apartment walls on recipe cards....with the definition on the other side. It was so much fun!!

Harold Sink: What would you tell high school and middle school students who want to become writers or poets?

Barbara Quinn: Go for it!!!! Writing will offer you a window into your own soul!!! You may find yourself surprised over all that's lurking around inside there!!!

Harold Sink: I see from your home page that you have many interests. Which of these comes first in your life, and why?

Barbara Quinn: Brian and our son Zane come before anything in my life. They have become my past, present, and future, and I learn so much from them. I look forward to the joy and challenges we face together each day as a family. They are my rocks, and bless their hearts, they put up with me!! Well, Zane doesn't really have a choice...LOL!!!

Harold Sink: Mrs. Quinn, it has been an honor interviewing you for Associated Content. I wish you the best of luck in your writings as a poet, and may God bless you daily in more ways than you expect.

Barbara Quinn: I certainly wish the same for you and your family, and am very honored that you would find interest in what I have to say Mr. Harold. Thank you again.