During zoom I forgot to ask a question that’s been on my mind: What is the difference between a song and a poem? Is there a difference? I’m asking because all the poetry that I write is put to music in some form or another, as song. Any thoughts?

—Florian

Lately I’ve been thinking about how I approach new stories or poems. Generally I start writing on a whim with some picture, idea, or relationship as inspiration. However, I tend to notice somewhere in my writing that it’s not going anywhere. Then it comes: why I’m writing this? (this is where my sweeping rewrites generally start) and I find a purpose to guide the piece. My questions to you is: Do you find yourself starting with a purpose in mind, or writing for the sake of writing? Does your writing even need to have a purpose? I’d love to hear your thoughts.

—Florian