Today we’d like to introduce you to Tommy Blake.

Hi Tommy, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.

I was first published in an international literary magazine when I was a teenager, and, inspired by a creative writing teacher, I chose to self-publish a couple titles at 17 years old. I’ve since revisited those books, made substantial edits, and sent them out elsewhere for publication almost 10 years later. However, in that time frame between 17 and 27, I’ve explored a lot more than those two titles. For instance, I received a BA in English Literature and MS in Digital and Print Media. Outside of academia, I edited for various literary magazines, typically for poetry. As for other works, I have published roughly 20 poetry books: full-length collections, chapbooks, and micro-chapbooks. My publishers include fifth wheel press, kith books, Querencia Press, and others.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?

There have been times when other things in life have been more pressing, to the point that they took priority over editing, writing, and submitting. When I was younger, I would consider these times difficult. Now I consider these times crucial to experience. It is simply not possible to be in a constant state of creativity and then to follow that up with the admin work that goes into it.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?

I’m known for writing poetry with the themes of dissociation, trauma, mental health, and popular culture. The manuscript I’m most proud of is one that isn’t published yet; however, as for already-published works, I am most proud of “Trick Mirror or Your Computer Screen” with fifth wheel press. The poetry chapbook explores the intersections of online landscapes, trauma, queerness, and self-discovery. What sets it apart from similar titles is the use of form, which is quite literal. For example, one poem takes on the formatting of a Wikipedia article.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?

I am often inspired by colleagues, such as nat raum, arden will, Emily Perkovich, wk blair, and Clem Flowers. This group of individuals have been a great source of support in my creative endeavors; they’re also fond friends.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://tommywyattblake.weebly.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tommywyattblake/
• Twitter: https://x.com/tommywyattblake
• Other: https://bsky.app/profile/tommywyattblake.bsky.social

Image Credits

Self