the inspiration of Swedish poetry

the inspiration of Swedish poetry

I have not written much in this blog yet about my work as a poet. I have two books of poetry out: Gabriel’s Beach and Songs to Kill A Wîhtikow. I have a third book, the book of ayâs, coming out next month.

One of the sources of inspiration for my work as a writer is of nêhiyawêwin [the Cree language.] 

Another source of inspiration for my writing is Swedish poetry. I am half Swedish, and I learned to speak Swedish from my late grandmother. I also had the fortune of going to art school in Sweden when I was younger. I have also spent a great deal of time teaching myself Swedish.

As I got older, I was drawn more to Swedish poetry than English poetry. I love the poetic stretch of the words I encounter. I love tracing the paths of the words, tracing the way that words relate to others. I love the rich imagery of the language. 

Tomas Tranströmer is my favorite modern Swedish poet. One of my favorite passages of his is,

            "Var mäniska en halfvöppen dörr

            som leder till ett  rum för all."

            [Every person a half-open door

            leading to a room for all.]

I am interested in Swedish poetry because it is a way of learning and practicing Swedish. More than that, Swedish poetry, specifically Tranströmer's work, provides me insights through which to think about life.