Quintessential Poetry Presents John Patrick Robbins - Raw, Unfiltered Poetry from the Mad Editor
Introduction
Welcome to a riveting journey into the captivating world of poetry as we embark on an
exclusive conversation on the "Quintessential Listening: Poetry Online Radio" late-night
podcast. This episode features the enigmatic and prolific poet, John Patrick Robbins.
His work seamlessly combines elements of darkness, humor, and raw authenticity.
Hosted by the insightful Dr. Michael Anthony Ingram, this episode peels back the layers
of Robbins' poetry while offering listeners a glimpse into his creative process and
unique perspectives on life and art.
Introducing John Patrick Robbins
The podcast kicks off with a warm introduction by Dr. Michael Anthony Ingram,
This episode highlights John Patrick Robbins as a frequent and cherished guest on the show. Robbins, a revered poet, author, and editor-in-chief of multiple magazines, graces the show for the sixth time, a testament to his significant impact on the poetry community. With a
conversational tone, Robbins opens up about his poetic journey, discussing his latest
book, "Are We Dead Yet?" which has topped Amazon's list of poetry books (https://www.amazon.com/Are-Dead-John-Patrick-Robbins/dp/B0BL52F4HH.)
The Birth of "Are We Dead Yet?"
Robbins shares the intriguing story behind the title "Are We Dead Yet?"—a clever play on
the familiar travel refrain: "Are we there yet?" He candidly recounts how the book
emerged during a challenging period in his life, when he channeled his emotions into
art. The book explores themes of self-empowerment, dark subject matter, and
existential introspection, creating a rich tapestry of language that captivates readers.
A Deep Dive into Themes and Styles
After discussing the book's themes, Robbins explains that his poetry often pays homage to
literary greats, like Blake, while simultaneously charting new territory. He emphasizes
Robbins underscores the significance of darkness as a motif, delving into it with a wry perspective and imbuing each piece with a sense of empowerment. Robbins' ability to juxtapose humor
and gravity showcases his versatility as a writer and keeps audiences engaged
throughout the collection.
Gothic Influence and the Art of the Cover
Robbins shares amusing anecdotes about his work charting on the gothic fiction list.
attributing its success to both the cover art and the content. His fascination with
creating striking covers is evident, explaining how a visual element can enhance the
overall reading experience. The discussion illuminates Robbins' commitment to creating
cohesive and compelling works of art that last a lifetime.
Crafting a Collection: The DJ's Approach
When asked about organizing his poems, Robbins likens the process to DJing or
assembling a mixtape. He endeavors to curate a rhythmic flow that leads readers on a
journey through his darkest and heaviest work yet. The book reflects a conscious
departure from the familiar barroom poetry style Robbins has explored in the past,
inviting readers to confront raw emotion and vulnerability.
Balancing the Serious and the Humorous
As the conversation unfolds, Robbins acknowledges the dual nature of his writing—
offering both serious and humorous elements. He reveals that humor serves as a coping mechanism, allowing him to explore deep themes without losing touch with the lighter side of life.
He reveals how humor serves as a coping mechanism, allowing him to explore deep themes without losing touch with the lighter side of life. With characteristic wit, Robbins recounts anecdotes about both writing and personal experiences, illustrating the seamless interplay between these contrasting elements.
Insights and Takeaways
Throughout the episode, Robbins imparts valuable insights into the creative process
and the lessons learned from his poetic journey. He encourages listeners to discover
strength within themselves, embracing both the darkness and light, while asserting the
importance of self-empowerment. Robbins' poetry serves as a reminder of the
the complexity of the human experience and the power of expression as a form of catharsis and connection.
Conclusion John Patrick Robbins' appearance on the "Quintessential Listening: Poetry Online Radio"
The podcasts provide an enlightening exploration of the depths of poetry, humor, and the human condition. His thought-provoking insights, coupled with Dr. Michael Anthony Ingram's engaging hosting, make for an unforgettable episode that both die-hard poetry enthusiasts and casual listeners can appreciate. Whether through embracing dark themes or amplifying humor, Robbins' work resonates on multiple levels, leaving audiences inspired to explore their creativity and truths. Stay connected for more episodes featuring remarkable poets like John Patrick Robbins, and let poetry ring throughout the land.
Host and Producer
Dr. Michael Anthony Ingram is a retired associate professor of Counselor Education and Supervision, social change activist, acclaimed poet and spoken word artist. His poetry explores themes of power, identity, and oppression. He has traveled widely, giving lectures and workshops on cultural competence, mental health awareness, and the development of empathy through poetry.
In addition to his podcasting work, Dr. Ingram is the Founder and Executive Director of the DC Poetry Project, Inc. Based in Washington, D.C., the DCPP seeks to promote awareness of societal, cultural, educational, and health issues through poetry and performance art. The organization is dedicated to fostering partnerships, strengthening communities, and encouraging volunteer support via poetic and artistic endeavors.
In May 2023, Dr. Ingram was featured in an interview with Heart of Hollywood magazine (https://www.heartofhollywoodmagazine.com/post/exclusive-interview-with-the-host-and-producer-of-quintessential-listening). He has been nominated for a Pushcart Prize in poetry. His eagerly awaited second poetry collection, Metaphorically Screaming" is expected to make a significant impact.
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