INTERVIEW WITH DANIEL
CORNER POET OF THE MONTH
APRIL/MAY 2006
Corner Poet:
Your work seems to be a combination of metered poetry and prose. Do you see your poems the same way?
Do you see a distinction between poetry and prose?
Daniel:
Yes, my work is a combination of metered poetry and prose and I only use the metered poetry as an introduction
to the body of work that follows. The only exception to this is ' The Labyrinth', which turned out to be the
longest bit of metered work I have ever done. Yes, I do see a distinction between the two styles. One of the
best examples that I can give you is not from my writing, but rather the difference between the Lord's Prayer
and His parables, that were spoken as prose. Regardless of religion, it cannot be denied that this prayer is
the most direct and powerful use of man's language and it is also the most beautiful of all metered verse.
In contrast, His parables were woven in such a manner that there were hidden lessons for every level of
spiritual awareness.
Corner Poet:
Your poem “The Poet and the Fool” seems to be a very personal prose, as if you actually had that conversation.
Is that so and what message would you like the reader to understand about the conversation that took place?
What led you to write this poem?
Daniel:
Yes, this one happens to be very personal, as it is a conversation between the poet and the fool within myself.
The message to the reader is simply this: It is not the magnitude of your material accomplishments that truly matter,
but rather the kindness of your seemingly smallest deed. A simple word of encouragement or the touch of an
understanding heart has the power to change other lives forever. I wrote this poem at a time when I was unsure if
my words were even being read…and then I received an email from a woman who thanked me for transforming her life from
one of bitterness and distrust into one of great joy and forgiveness. I was truly humbled by the story this lady revealed to me.
Corner Poet:
What would you say inspires you not only to write poetry but also offers you substantive inspiration for what you
write about (e.g., other poets, spiritual experiences, life events, etc.)?
Daniel:
With regards to other poets, my work has been hugely influenced by Kahlil Gibran. I, along with so many others,
consider him to be a Master Poet and a major influence in the continuing universal, spiritual enlightenment of all mankind.
The inspiration for my writing comes from the very Essence of my Being and it is exactly the same Essence of every other
person that shall ever live. This is why so many people feel compelled to write to me, saying that they have always
felt the same things and it was as if I were speaking directly to them. In truth, it is their own soul speaking the
universal message that I was able to capture in the written form; and when these words are spoken aloud, they take on a
life and power that can only come from a Higher Source.
Corner Poet:
What would you say was a defining moment in your career as a poet? Why?
Daniel:
The defining moment, for me, came in May of 1979. It was the day after my wife almost died, and I had what can
only be described as a mystical experience. It is far too private to talk about, but suffice it to say that it was the first
time that I heard the poetry that I was to write and I knew why I had to find a way to share it with all others.
Corner Poet:
What advice would you offer to other poets who struggle to write, get published, or to have their poems heard
and appreciated?
Daniel:
Each and every person has something of value to share. There are thousands of unknown poets whose words are
far more beautiful than my own, and I understand their struggles and frustration with the traditional publishing world.
I would advise them to use the Internet to have their voices heard. The Internet is the One Great Library of our
changing world and you, alone, control your own publishing destiny. It is hard work to create and successfully advertise
your own poetry site, but it can be so rewarding to you as a writer.
Corner Poet:
Your book The Prophet’s Candle seems to have come after several years of working hard to get it published.
What was the inspiration to actually publish your poems, especially because they are quite personal?
Where did you get the title from?
Daniel:
Yes, it actually took fifteen years for me to finally find a way to share The Prophet's Candle with the world.
It is very frustrating for unknown writers to be forever rejected by the traditional publishing world and especially so,
for the type of writing I do…there just isn't a profitable market for it. But my work was never really meant to be for
sale, rather it was to be given away to those who might find value in things not readily understood from a worldly point
of reference. These words of inspiration have value only to those who are in need of comfort, love and healing and then
it becomes a priceless treasure. The title, 'The Prophet's Candle' symbolizes the Divine Light of Inspiration that guides
each and every soul, and each soul is its own prophet.
Corner Poet:
Which of your poems or prose is the one that means the most to you? Why? e.g., I found "Knife" to be very touching...
I suspect there are others and I am wondering if there is one in particular that is almost like an autobiography to you.
Daniel:
Each one of my poems, prose or parables is one of my beloved children, but if I had to choose just one that the meant the
most to me, it would be 'The Stairway to Heaven'. This particular writing encapsulates everything else that I have ever
written. Not only is it my autobiography, but it is yours as well. Indeed, is it not truly the story of the endless journey
we all walk, though treading on seemingly different paths?
Corner Poet:
What is the one wish you wish for yourself for the coming year?
Daniel:
I wish nothing for myself. I pray only for the return of my wife's health as well as for all others who suffer
with unattended needs.
Certificate of Appreciation
Home