Interview with Poet Paula Shaffer (BENCH SOLILOQUY)

Matthew Toffolo: What is the theme of your poem?

Paula Shaffer: The magnificent view from a bench on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Dana Point, CA.

2) What motivated you to write this poem?

I often visit the “bench” just to marvel at the sea, hear the roaring crash on the rocks, taste the sea’s saltiness, experience the power of the ocean in its majestic splendor. A place to reflect and feel small, surrounded my nature’s majesty. It’s a humbling experience.

3) How long have you been writing poetry?

I have been a closet poet for 30+ years, but rarely shared it with others. However, after retirement, I enrolled in a continuous Journaling/Poetry class in January 2019. That’s when I endeavored to really work at the art of composing poems. 2019 became a breakout year for me with writing poetry on a regular basis and for the first…