Mary Newcomer, London Independent Story Prize 2024 2nd Competition Poetry Finalist 'Going Home, Going Somewhere'

London Independent Story Prize 2024 2nd Competition Poetry Finalist 'Going Home, Going Somewhere' by Mary Newcomer

Can you tell us about your and your daily life?

I was born in the USA but moved to France in my twenties where I married and raised a family.  It was very challenging to change countries and learn a new language and I’m sure this experience greatly influenced my poetry.  I now also write poems in French, so it is wonderful to be able to express myself in poetry in the two languages.

I am semi-retired.  I continue to teach English to French professionals in companies, but on a part-time basis.  I live in the French Alps so love walking in the countryside, enjoying the mountains and all the natural beauty surrounding me.

When and how did you get into writing?

I started writing poetry and fiction when I was a teenager, and I always dreamed of becoming a writer.  Life’s challenges made that dream harder and harder to come true, but I, nonetheless, kept on writing!

What’s the best and most challenging thing about writing poetry?

In poetry, each word counts enormously.  There’s a melody to each poem which the poet is desperately trying to hear and respect.  It’s a tough job.  Each poem is a challenge and a great thrill to write.

How did you develop the idea for your LISP selected poem?

As I am older, I have a lot more memories that bounce around in my head.  I think that was the start of this poem which then took on a life of its own.

What’s the best thing and most challenging about competitions?

The best thing about competitions is that they keep you motivated and on your toes.  I’ve had many, many rejections, but it’s made me have a more critical eye on my work.  Nevertheless, it can be very discouraging when I think my work was not appreciated by a judge or some other group of readers and, in my opinion, I had sent in something good.

Lastly, do you recommend writers submit to LISP?

Yes!  And I want to thank LISP for choosing my poem.  It has really re-motivated me in my writing journey.