Writers are normal people who just like to subject themselves to lots of fiddling and doubt. We toil away behind closed doors with all sorts of goofy rituals, but at some point in the life of a poem or story we have to come out and face the public—a mysterious and elusive audience that may or may not actually exist.

I’ve done a few real-deal readings of my work and I can’t say I love them. I do love people and connecting in conversation, but the performer’s mask has always felt a little tight on me. That said, reading poems aloud is a passion and if I must I will go forward sharing the good word on occasion. Two such events are nearing quickly: the book launch reading for By Way Of on October 4th in New York and the first of the 2009-10 Castalia reading series, put on by the University of Washington’s creative writing program.

Within a few days time you can find me on both coasts speaking from the diaphragm, humbly signing copies of the new chapbook, in a sort of vacant shock that at 26 I’m a broke young father who’s actually getting his work out there. If you’re able, come support me in my stupor and let me know what you think of the work. I’ll be a gracious listener too.