A brief Q&A

From Day 10 of 30/30 2023

I’ve never seen a fire
hydrant be turned on
common sense dictates
they’re used to diminish the flames
but if I’ve never seen them
ignited how do you turn it off
what truly stops the water
works before the railroad
is there only one person who
knows the security code
how long can I stare at the
red before I burst

I’ve never been a huge fan of the Q&A sections of events. They can often go so far off the intended path or lift the veil of the magic if you will. Some people are only interested in this part which is cool if you fit into that category. My uneven experiences have left me weary. This is not limited to an in-person format either because I’ve witnessed virtual readings where the Q&A box is full of nonsense. Maybe it’s because they instantly take me back to grad school where you were going straight to a reading after a nearly 3-hour workshop. I usually quietly exit in the silent moments before the first question is asked.

When you’re part of the reading lineup, slipping out is impossible. In fact, I’m so unused to this experience that when it was time for the community Q&A at my reading, I was still sitting in the crowd. I’m so used to being on the receiving end of these events that it was a different sensation entirely to be on the giving side. It also made for an awkward laugh in the reading recording.

Fortunately, the host at the event I was fortunate to participate in had a batch of questions for all the readers. Passing the mic back and forth and getting perspectives on writing processes, grief, and coping strategies was something I would have missed entirely if I wasn’t performing in this event. There was even time for some audience questions which showed a level of engagement I’ve never been at the front of the room for. Granted, I couldn’t immediately recall any of my answers once we exited the evening but it felt good to share. I don’t know if I’ll make it a requirement for future events but it was a nice change of pace.