As a poet, I guess you’re supposed to think deep thoughts. I don’t, but I think the rule book calls for some depth every once in a while, at least on Capital L words like Life, Love and Luxurious (Blonde) Locks. So here’s my monthly quota: I say the opposite of love isn’t hate; it’s more likely apathy. Or maybe it’s ignorance, as in being ignored by the object of your loving feelings. That’s how the past few weeks have been for me and something I love…the writing for what passes as my heart and soul. And it’s a horrible feeling.

I’m Joe Hesch and I’m your barkeep and poem wrangler for today’s edition of dVerse Open Link Night.

Have you ever experienced what most call writer’s block? I can’t say that’s what I had. I think it was more a writer’s life block. You know, when real life gets in the way of your writing life. It casts a shadow beneath which not much can grow. Don’t get me wrong, shadows are where more than half of my poetry is grown.

But, as I said before, it’s the apathy, the ignoring, that is the painful part of my tenuous relationship with what I laughingly call “my gift.” (The fickle wench.)

I can’t just break through his type of creative malaise. I tried. Just as you can’t force someone to love you. You must trust. I trusted I would be able to create something again. (It didn’t matter what that might be by Week 3 of this particular funk.)

It was the gentle support of people I met here at dVerse and good old One Stop Poetry that nudged my creative imagination and me into a heart-to-heart on Friday last. And that’s such a good feeling, getting back in touch with your creative self (with no strings attached) and knowing you have found friends who know you and support your efforts (also with no strings attached).

It doesn’t necessarily make this easier, but definitely better.

That’s what can come of visiting here and our friends’ blogs on Tuesdays. Here’s how you can join us:

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