Jess Levens

I'm Jess Levens, current Poet Laureate of Holliston, MA. I love spending time with my family, hiking, writing, photography and watching TV. I like to chill.

Question 1: What have you written that you're the most proud of?

My debut poetry chapbook, "A Break in the Spine.”

Question 2: What do the words “writer’s block” mean to you? 

Distracted. Uninspired. Bored.

Question 3: When did you first call yourself a writer? 

January 2022

Question 4: What is your writing process like? Are you more of a plotter or a pantser?

I like to explore and bring a notebook and camera with me. I'll take pictures of interesting things and jot down notes—sometimes a particular line or phrase will hit me—and when I come home, I piece a poem together.

Question 5: If you could spend a day with another popular author, whom would you choose?

Rudyard Kipling

Question 6: What is your kryptonite as a writer?

Time. There is never enough.

Question 7: Do you play music while you write — and, if so, what’s your favorite?

Yes! I can only write to instrumentals. My favorite non-instrumental music is pretty varied— I love the Decemberists, Ethel Cain, Run the Jewels, Ghost, Purity Ring, Rage Against the Machine and pretty much all Cash Money Records and No Limit rap from the late 1990s/early 2000s.

Question 8: What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

Just keep writing, even if you feel uninspired.

Question 9: What do you think is the best way to improve writing skills?

Read things that are outside of your comfort zone. Learn new perspectives.

Question 10: If you could invite any three people for dinner, whom would you invite? 

Herman Melville, Teddy Roosevelt and Lady Gaga