Hi and welcome to The Fat Poet! I’m Owen, and I’m thrilled to have you here. For over 25 years, I’ve been pouring my heart and soul into poetry, capturing the essence of connection, love, life experiences, and those fleeting moments that define our existence.
Poetry has always been my refuge, a place where I can explore the depths of human emotion and share my unique perspective with the world. My journey as a poet began decades ago, inspired by the simple yet profound experiences of everyday life. Whether it’s the warmth of a lover’s embrace, the bittersweet beauty of a sunset, or the quiet solitude of a rainy day, I strive to bring these moments to life through my words.
The themes I write about are universal – we all seek connection, love, and meaning in our lives. Through my poetry, I aim to bridge the gaps between us, to remind us of our shared humanity, and to celebrate the rich tapestry of experiences that make life so wonderfully complex.
As you explore The Fat Poet, you’ll find a collection of my work that spans decades of creative expression. Each poem is a piece of my heart, a snapshot of a moment in time, crafted with care and passion. I hope that my words resonate with you, that they evoke emotions and spark reflections, and perhaps even inspire you to see the world through a different lens.
Inspirations: The Poets Who Shaped My Journey
Every poet has a lineage, a constellation of influences that shape their voice and vision. For me, poetry is a dialogue with the greats who came before, those whose words have lingered in my mind and heart, guiding my pen as I write. Here are some of the poets who have profoundly inspired my work:
Robert Frost
Robert Frost’s ability to capture the beauty and complexity of rural life has always resonated deeply with me. His use of simple language to convey profound truths about nature, human relationships, and existence itself is a constant source of inspiration. Frost’s poems remind me that the most profound insights often come from observing the world around us with a keen and open eye.
Franz Kafka
While Kafka is often celebrated for his prose, his poetry also holds a special place in my heart. Kafka’s exploration of the surreal and the existential speaks to the deeper, often darker aspects of the human condition. His ability to blend reality with the fantastical challenges me to push the boundaries of my own writing, to delve into the unknown and the unsettling.
Rumi
Rumi’s mystical and spiritual poetry transcends time and culture, speaking to the universal quest for love and connection. His verses are imbued with a profound sense of longing and a deep appreciation for the divine in everyday life. Rumi’s work inspires me to infuse my own poetry with a sense of wonder and a search for meaning beyond the material world.
e.e. cummings
e.e. cummings’ innovative use of language and form has taught me the power of breaking free from convention. His playful yet profound manipulation of syntax and structure encourages me to experiment with my own poetic forms, to find new ways to express familiar emotions and ideas. Cummings reminds me that poetry is not just about what we say, but how we say it.
Elizabeth Barrett Browning
Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s passionate and eloquent poetry explores themes of love, faith, and social justice with a voice that is both powerful and tender. Her sonnets, in particular, have influenced my understanding of the beauty and depth that can be achieved through structured verse.
William Ernest Henley
William Ernest Henley’s resilient spirit and determination shine through in his poetry. His famous poem “Invictus” serves as a constant reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the power of an unyielding will. Henley’s work inspires me to write with conviction and to never shy away from exploring the depths of personal struggle and triumph.
Alfred Noyes
Alfred Noyes’ narrative poems, filled with vivid imagery and compelling storytelling, have a special place in my heart. His ability to weave captivating tales through verse has influenced my approach to narrative poetry, encouraging me to blend storytelling with lyrical beauty.
Thank you for visiting my corner of the internet. Whether you’re a fellow poetry lover, a curious newcomer, or someone seeking a deeper connection with the world, I’m glad you’re here. Feel free to reach out, share your thoughts, or simply enjoy the poetry. Here’s to the beauty of words and the stories they tell.
Van Owen, The Fat Poet