David Duchovny on His Poetry Collection 'About Time'

The Genesis of 'About Time'

• 💡 David Duchovny has been writing poems for his entire life, with the collection "About Time" representing about 25 years of his work.
• 📌 While many poems are recent, some older pieces are included, reflecting a lifelong interest in poetry.

Poetry's Non-Utilitarian Value

• 🧠 Duchovny argues that poetry, and disciplines like English literature, are not useful in the traditional sense of preparing for a job.
• 🎯 Instead, poetry is essential for educating the mind on how to think, solve problems, and feel, thereby educating the soul.
• 💬 The inherent mystery in words and expression is key to uncovering the deepest truths, making poetry valuable precisely because it's not easily defined.

Central Themes in the Collection

• 💔 The poems span approximately 20 years of Duchovny's life, covering significant events such as the death of his parents and the birth and raising of his children.
• 🌟 The allure of writing a good poem lies in making something personal to the writer also feel personal to the reader.
• 🐛 A particularly personal poem describes a moment with his young daughter encountering a dead mouse, leading to a profound conversation about life, death, and impermanence.

Creative Process and Self-Discovery

• ⚡ Ideas for creative projects can come from anywhere, and the artist's role is to determine the best form for that idea or feeling.
• ✍️ A turn of phrase or a fleeting thought might inspire a poem, which is often a small, focused moment rather than an epic narrative.
• 🌱 Writing poetry over decades has taught Duchovny that he remains committed to seeking and trying to articulate truths, viewing this continuous effort as an optimistic act.