Derek White

Derek White was born in Oregon and grew up in Mexico, California and Arizona. He's lived in some other places and worked the requisite string of odd jobs that have nothing to do with writing or poetry. He now lives in New York City where he runs Calamari Press and Sleepingfish. During the day he works as an information architect, currently for the video site Heavy. His brother gave him the URL www.derekwhite.com that he updates occasionally though mostly in regards to gainful employment. He keeps a blog of sorts at www.5cense.com.

1) What projects are you currently on? (Include issue #s, books, chapbooks, broadsides, special projects, print and web).

The most recent issue of Sleepingfish is 0.9375. The next issue I think will be issue "zzz". Not that that is the end, but the numbering system is getting old. The most recent Calamari Press book is Vaast Bin by Michael Peters and there's this other one, The Hour Sets by Michael Boyko which is at the printers at the moment. In the pipleine is a chap by J'Lyn Chapman, and a novel by James Lewelling.

2) What has been your biggest challenge as a poetry publisher/editor?

Trying to make enough money to support the habit. And finding the time. The big challenge is then finding the time to do your own projects.

3) Do you regret any paths you have followed as a publisher/editor?

No.

4) Name one poet who has not appeared in your publication which you would love to have included and why.

As far as "poets" go, I guess I would say James Tate. Because I really dig his work.

5) Who is the designer of your web site and how much input do you have in the design of the web site and the other design elements including covers for books, etc.?

I design the websites and most of the book covers, etc.

6) What recognitions have you received as a publisher/editor?

Not sure if this means awards? I don't really believe in awards or contests. But Calamari Press books have been reviewed in some cool places like The Believer and ABR and Raintaxi, and have been excerpted in places like Harper's. Personally, the recognition I value most is when writers I admire take note of what I'm doing and the feedback from individuals whose opinion means a lot to me.

7) Where do you see your publication/editing in 5 years?

I can't think that far into the future! I kind of make things up as I go along.

8) What are some of your other interests?

Food. Traveling. Running. Music. Art. And just kind of walking around looking at stuff.

9) What is your favorite poem as of today and why?

Battlefield Where The Moon Says I Love You. If I knew why, it probably wouldn't be.

10) Recommend a poetry book, blog or web site to our audience (not from one of your press) and why.

I don't follow poetry too much, but if you count literary fiction, then I'd recommend Partial List of People to Bleach by Gary Lutz. As for blogs, I really like David Byrne's and check into it often. Websites? Tarpaulin Sky.

11) What is the most exciting aspect of being a poetry publisher/editor?

Reading a manuscript that is unpublished and fantastic, and then being a part of the process that turns it into a book. That sort of "discovery" process I guess you could call it.

12) Leave us with a recipe for poetry.

Now to sound cheesy, but listen to your dreams, as in the that nighttime activity that we all undergo when your mind acts out with strange and wonderful outcomes.