Neighbor Joanna Hoffman Celebrates First Full-Length Poetry Collection
After 10 years of spoken word competitions, 13th Street’s Joanna Hoffman decided to take a step back and focus on a less competitive outlet for her art. The culmination of this decision is her first full-length poetry collection, Running for Trap Doors, recently released from Sibling Rivalry Press.
We caught up with Joanna to learn a bit more about her work, her inspiration, and some impressive, but not necessarily true, details about her life.
Tell us 3 things about yourself: 2 true, and 1 lie (we’ll reveal the lie at the end of the post).
• I’m related to Michael Douglas.
• I’ve never broken a bone.
• I was once air-lifted out of the Grand Canyon.
How long have you been in South Slope?
I’ve been living here for six years now, which is crazy because I still panic sometimes when people ask me for directions. I moved from Baltimore to go to NYU for grad school in International Public Policy/Nonprofit Management and to widen my lesbian social circle beyond the one bar in Baltimore.
How would you describe your poetry?
Confessional and self-deprecating but with a lot of love and optimism.
Who are some of the poets that inspire your work?
I love everything Dean Young has ever written. I’m also a big fan of Mary Oliver, Audre Lorde, and Suheir Hammad. Through spoken word, I was introduced to the poetry of Patricia Smith, Rachel McKibbens, Mindy Netifee, and Sam Sax, all of whom constantly inspire me.
What can you tell us about your new book?
This book details my process of learning how to get out of my own way and to navigate family dynamics, mental illness, escapism, horrible relationship choices, and emoticons in a healthy way.
How can people pick up a copy?
It can be ordered through my publisher or on Amazon. I’ll also be having a book release party on Saturday, September 21 at the Nuyorican Poets Café featuring some of my favorite NYC poets. Check out my website for more info.
What is the neighborhood’s best kept secret?
I love Roots Café on 5th Ave between 18th and 19th. A great spot to sit with some coffee and write poems.
Turns out Joanna has never broken a bone!
Photo via Joanna Hoffman
