Lee Woodard II began his commercial fishing career at fourteen years old. His career spanned over four decades! He has written a three-volume collection of deep, spiritual poems that address the deepest human feelings. In this interview, we aim to gain insight into Woodard’s process, as well as the goals of his books.
What is the PRIMARY benefit, above all others, that your potential reader will gain from reading this book?
My hope is that readers will feel connected to the poetry, the emotion and pain that I felt at times. Although I wrote these poems I could never orate them. I often break down while reading them myself.
Hundreds of thousands of books come out every year. Why should someone buy THIS book?
I’ve read the Bible cover to cover more than once. I own four translations of it, my favorite being the New Living Translation. It is the overall message I align with; I am not hung up on the exact points of the Bible. Cormac McCarthy is my favorite author. I’ve read many, many books and at least seven of his. I think in some small ways my poems compare to Edgar Allen Poe. There is of course no direct comparison. I think my work compares to an amalgamation of other writers including Edgar, Cormic and even Stephen King. There is a strong spiritual influence from my faith in most of my work.
Who is your target audience?
My poetry and nonfiction work are extremely honest and raw. I do not hide anything about myself and some of it is quite revealing. My books, I feel, are unique and fresh and stand out from other authors. Readers will experience something very different while reading my words.
The audience was never in my mind while I wrote these poems and stories. I feel, however, anyone with an open mind to a higher power can relate. Anyone who has lived long enough to experience deep loss and emotional pain would be my audience. I do not feel it is appropriate for kids, it is too heavy and emotional.
Did your environment or upbringing play a major role in your writing and did you use it to your advantage?
My time growing up was rough. I became a commercial fisherman at 14 and went to Alaska to fish for crab at 15. That and all of my experiences have shaped and affected me. My writing is however extremely spontaneous. I would say it is inspired writing. Every part of my life is poured out when I write.
Tell us your most rewarding experience since publishing your work?
The most rewarding thing since writing these books is seeing someone relate to the words. When someone is moved emotionally, it is very rewarding.
How would you describe your writing style?
My style of writing is inspired and spontaneous. These poems just flowed out of me onto the pages. I always have only the first line or verse in mind when I begin a poem. Each verse writes the next, I often cannot type fast enough. I never know what the next verse will ever be let alone the last. The poetry is completely spontaneous. Words simply flow onto the page.
What do you hope to accomplish with your book other than selling it?
My deepest hope is that readers will relate to my work and that they come away with a sense of hope.
How can our readers get in touch with you?
I can be reached via Facebook, Instagram, or my website.
