Doris Kareva: a person must do several things, but writing is not one of them
Doris Kareva discusses her approach to poetry and her nomination for the Cultural Capital Literary Awards in Estonia, emphasizing that writing should not be taken too seriously during creative pauses.
Doris Kareva, an acclaimed Estonian poet, was recently nominated for the Cultural Capital Literary Award in the poetry category for her collection "Maast leitud, tuulde tõlgitud". During the nomination event, Kareva expressed that she does not take creative blocks too seriously, finding joy in the idea that her poetry can resonate with others, even if she is not currently writing. She highlighted the importance of her work connecting with the readers' current needs, whether that be peace, hope, or something else altogether.
Kareva reflected on the diverse themes present in her collection, suggesting that the poems resonate with various historical contexts and personal experiences. She acknowledges that different readers may interpret her work uniquely; some might grasp the meaning instantly while others might overlook it. Kareva shared a lighthearted anecdote about finding inspiration during her walks on the beach, likening her method of gathering inspiration to collecting stones and writing poetry that emerges from those experiences.
As a seasoned writer, Kareva advises younger poets not to stress too much about their writing processes, advocating for a relaxed approach to creativity. She believes that periods of inactivity can be balanced with the excitement and richness of past works, and encourages others to find solace and inspiration in both their creations and the world around them. Her insights reflect an understanding of the ebb and flow of the creative process, resonating with both established and emerging writers alike.