Poet Interview – Linda Clayton – Subject Taboo

On The Table Read Magazine, “the best creativity magazine in the UK“, poet Linda Clayton shares the experiences that inspired her to write her new book, Subject Taboo.

Written by JJ Barnes

www.jjbarnes.co.uk

I interviewed Linda Clayton about her life and career, the experiences that inspired her to write her new poetry book, Subject Taboo, and her creative writing process.

Tell me a bit about who you are.

I had a very bad start to life. One day I had a mother, and at the age of 7 she was gone. My father believed her to be murdered and could not cope. My baby brother was taken away to live with my auntie, and myself to Dr Barnardo’s. In the late 60’s it was not a nice place to be. Thank goodness it has changed today

When did you first WANT to write poetry?

My toys very few, but lots of pen and paper so I would write competitions and play around with words. From 8 years old I started to write my first good one, called Home! It did not go in the book, but I believe I needed to write because I had a lot to say, ”Why ME?”

I write for greeting cards, mostly Blue mountain Art, and anything sentimental. Not forgetting the CD , I l performed all over the pubs and Clubs of Cambridgeshire, Bury Sd Edmunds and more.

How long did it take you to complete your first book from the first idea to release?

First book was just self published. All my family got together and found all the things I had done, and had it printed. It was just for the family  Then someone in the poetry world saw it and said they would like to publish it. From that,  Subject Taboo was born.

My first book, Shades Of Life, was bot published but read out on radio , put on to tape recorders, and performed on TV.

How long did it take you to complete your latest book from the first idea to release

40yrs

Focusing on your latest release. What made you want to write Subject Taboo?

 I love to play with words and how they work together.

What were your biggest challenges with writing Subject Taboo?

 Thinking of a poem because after all it is a short story.

Do you keep to a theme with your poems, or just go where the mood strikes?

 I can only write what’s in my  mind at the time.

What is your favourite poem in Subject Taboo about and what inspired it?

Gossip, I love that I can see her in all of us 

Does music help you write or is it a distraction?

 No, I can’t think with it on.

Did you get support with editing, and how much editing did Subject Taboo need?

 Yes, each book had to be edited.

What is the first piece of writing advice you would give to anyone inspired to write poetry?

 Think well once it’s out it’s out. You must write because you love it,

Can you give me a hint about any further books you’re planning to write?

 They will all ways be called Taboo. I plan for six all on different subjects.

I am not good with new technology. I am old and new things are very hard for us old people to understand.

One thing I didn’t say is my love of God.

And, finally, are your proud of your accomplishment? Was it worth the effort?

 Yes.

Pop all your book, website and social media links here so the readers can find you:

Kindle: https://amzn.to/474OZnT

Paperback: https://amzn.to/3O9MDeO