MISUNDERSTOOD LITERARY GENIUS

I’ve written three books of poetry, one of which also contained some short stories. My work was included in The Outlaw Bible of American Poetry. If I had to categorize myself, I’d call myself a street poet. My main poetic influences are Charles Bukowski, Jimmy Santiago Baca, Miguel Pinero, and Sherman Alexie.

MIDDLE-AGED COMEDIAN

I started late in life for the comedy world. I’m older than many headliners out there. In keeping with my general ass-backwardness of my life, I came out with a comedy CD before I ever did a gig at a comedy club. I’m what you would call an alternative comedian, which to me means that I’m much more comfortable in a rock club using notes than in an actual comedy club. But, as all my comedy heroes got their chops and learned their craft in comedy clubs, whither do I go as well. My favorite comics performing today are Greg Proops, Patton Oswalt, Jen Kirkman, Christopher Titus, and Ron Shock. I don’t think I sound like any of them, although I’d love to.

RELUCTAND SELF-HELP GURU

In 2007, I was convinced to write a self help book. I was as reluctant to write one as I was to join a 12 Step group five years prior. I’m an alcoholic and drug addict. There’s no doubt about that. The extent of my message is “get someone to help you.” I don’t have any answers; I think answering those questions for yourself is one purpose in life. I do have advice on where to go to help you figure out your big, scary questions.