As part of our series "Poetically Speaking," we're highlighting Michigan poets.
West Bloomfield’s Diane DeCillis’ first book of poetry, Strings Attached, has been named a Michigan Notable Book for 2015.
DeCillis draws on her past and her family in many of her poems, including the poem for which the book was named.
“Attachment and separation are big themes for me,” she says. “My father left when I was young, and I was very close to him. And later my aunt left, she went to Lebanon and I thought she was coming back, and she didn’t.”
DeCillis was an art gallery owner for 30 before closing shop to become a full-time poet. Despite initial concern about shedding that identity, she tells us that she still carries her love of art and that it influences her poetry.
“Honestly, I’m feeling so relaxed and happy about this transition that was kind of nerve-wracking for a little while,” she says.
Listen above to hear DeCillis talk more about her experience with poetry and read from her book, Strings Attached.
More information about Diane DeCillis and her upcoming events and readings can be found on her website.
