WHAT PEACEFUL DREAMS MAY COME Poetry Reading by Paula Tozer

The Robin Williams tribute poem.

Watch the Poem WHAT PEACEFUL DREAMS MAY COME:

Poem read by Holly Sarchfield

Get to know Poet Paula Tozer:

1) What is the theme of your poem?

This poem was written as a tribute to my favourite comedian and one of my favourite dramatic actors, Robin Williams.

His extensive catalogue of films and dramatic works has always been a source of delight to me, with my favourite being What Dreams May Come.

The title of my poem is in reference to this film, and within this work I have also made reference to some of his other movies.

Robin worked on the cusp of brilliance and inspiration. He drew from the depths of what he knew so well – his wellspring of creativity. I could always see his heart in his eyes and connected to him in a profound manner.

I am a singer/songwriter. Entertainment is about so much more than merely singing a song. Robin set the bar high with regards to artistry. He is not only an inspiration, but my example of what it means to truly perform. I miss him.

2) How would you like people to respond when they read or watch your poetry reading?

As a singer/songwriter connection with the audience throughout the performance is vital. I am primarily a lyricist and it is interesting to me how many of my songs began as lyrical poetry.

I wear my heart on my sleeve when I write and perform, and so to experience an equally heartfelt response to my work from the audience would be deeply gratifying. I would have accomplished what I have set out to do!

What is a poem if it is not read? What is a song if it is not heard?

3) How long have you been writing poetry?

I consider myself primarily a lyricist. I love the flow of a beautiful poem and hear music in its words. For me, one generally leads to the other in an act as natural as breathing.

I have written a few poems over the years, but it has been in the past 5 years that my work has taken on a new depth and prolificacy as I adapt my work to music.

4) Do you have a favourite poet?

I am a huge fan of the poetic and musical work of Leonard Cohen. I admire the depth of his work, his ability to incite introspection, as well as his success in adapting his work to music.

5) What influenced you to submit to WILDsound and have your poetry performed by a professional actor?

I found WILDsound on Twitter and was intrigued by your site. You feature so many wonderful poets! I had written the poem for Robin and I felt inspired to send it to you.

Robin touched the lives of so many of us and I wanted to share my tribute.

I am a huge supporter of the Arts and my fellow performers. I will love hearing the feelings I poured into this poem interpreted by a skilled actor!!

6) Do you write other works? Scripts? Short Stories? Etc..?

I also write short stories and a blog. My prose has made it into a couple of traditional as well as online publications over the years and I have a book in the works.

At this time my primary focus is on song writing and performing my music. I have just released a 3-song EP of original work, Cain’s Regret.

I am following my White Rabbit – this new project represents an expanded exploration of musical genres, as well as a new depth lyrically. Cain’s Regret is a follow-up to my debut EP, Blue Muse. I am gearing up for a busy summer season of performing!

My collected works, both musical and written, can be accessed via my website:

http://www.paulatozermusic.com/

7) What is your passion in life?

I love to write songs and perform! I truly believe that when the joy I feel in the creative process is shared, it expands exponentially. What we love is meant to be shared, and I am fearless! My motto is “Spreadin’ The Love.”
Yes, I am a flower child 

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