Paul Bossé
Born in Moncton, New Brunswick, in 1971, Paul Bossé completed a bachelor's degree in film at Concordia University in Montreal in 1994. Upon his return to his hometown, he embarked on a multidisciplinary artistic career centered on poetry, film and theater. In addition to publishing six collections of poetry, he has scripted television series, directed documentaries, shot experimental films and written five plays. Whatever the discipline, his works all bear witness to a wacky, often caustic vision of our crazy world.
Paul Bossé's latest poetry collection, "Tous les tapis roulants mènent à Rome", published by Éditions Perce-Neige, is available in bookstores since September 12.
Who or what inspires you and why?
Current affairs are a thriller that never ceases to offer unexpected twists and turns. Eight billion human beings living on a planet with no instruction manual on how to live well on the same planet makes for an intense tragicomedy.
What drew you to poetry?
Several things: the fact that it's a language laboratory, its musicality, its unlimited forms, its history (dating back thousands of years).
What do you enjoy most about writing poetry?
Its freedom and playfulness: you can play with words, shapes, meanings, sounds and so on. When I start a poem, I feel like I can go in any direction.
What do you enjoy most about being an artist living in New Brunswick?
Given its small size (physically and demographically), NB has the advantage of giving its artists the impression that their work has a certain importance. That the artist can contribute to the culture of their community.
Describe what you are most proud of as an artist.
My next book. In this case, it's "Tous les tapis roulants mènent à Rome", but it will no doubt be superseded by the next one. I like to think that, as an artist, I'm always progressing (but maybe I'm wrong?).
What is your artistic approach and/or philosophy to creating art?
Always deliver, within your personal limitations, the best possible version of the work.
Who is your favourite artist(s) and why?
I have favorite artists in quite a few disciplines (in literature, my favorite writer is probably Don DeLillo) but on my deathbed, I'd like to cross the boundaries of nothingness by listening to John Coltrane.
What advice would you give to young, emerging artists?
Whatever the weather, always stay the course.
Where can people connect with you?
By phone (landline). I hate cell phones and social media.
