I haven’t read enough of Howe and Oliver to make a comparison–they’re both prolific. But based on my slim knowledge, I don’t see a similarity (except perhaps in terms of the contemplative observation). To me, Oliver’s poems are very personal (one reason, I think, that they resonate with so many people), and Howe’s poems move from the personal to a larger world experience–poverty, social justice, history. A piercing inquiry.

The writing will come. (My favorite rabbit from the hat these days is to start writing a list of words–just a list. It doesn’t have to make anything or be anything, but it’s writing and it’s words.)

Best wishes on the mesa and your journey–

–Joannie