Embracing Authority Amidst Dis-Ease
In Conversation with Elijah A Bland No. 02
In a recent interview with contemporary poet Elijah A. Bland, we shed light on his compelling 2020 poem "Authority." Inspired by the juxtaposition of external directives during the Covid-19 lockdowns and internal agency, Elijah speaks of a transformative realization: the profound power of personal authority amidst global chaos.
Alison: Elijah, your poem “Authority” seems to be a stark exploration of solitude and its multifaceted implications during challenging times. The title itself feels commanding. What inspired you to name this piece “Authority”?
Elijah: The title “Authority” was inspired from several sources. During the early stages of the Covid-19 lockdowns, we were adhering to directives from our leaders: “Stay inside”, “stay safe”, “mask up”, and so on. Initially, this felt restrictive. However, as I sat with and reflected on the poem, I started viewing it in terms of personal agency.
Despite the challenges the world and I faced, I had the choice to either be overwhelmed or find empowerment. This realization led me to the concept of a new authority.
Alison: The interpretation behind the title "Authority" is both timely and deeply resonant, particularly considering the context of the pandemic.
In viewing authority from a place of personal agency, do you believe that this challenging period inadvertently offered individuals a unique chance to redefine their own boundaries and self-perceptions?
Elijah: Absolutely. Here’s an analogy I’d use with my daughter: Imagine a time when the world was playing their favorite video game. Suddenly, the universe, caused a power surge leading to a hard reset. Some had the foresight to save their progress, resuming where they left off. Some had to start anew. A few even needed an entirely new gaming system. Or for those truly unfortunate, they couldn’t even afford a new one.
Yet, a select few recognized a world abundant with opportunities. All they needed was to step away from the game and explore outside. It’s these individuals who might eventually craft their own games. Not the best of analogies, but she got the gist.
Alison: That's a beautifully intuitive way to explain such a complex situation. Framing it in the context of a game brings forth the idea that life is filled with choices, challenges, and chances for reinvention.
With "Authority," do you see yourself as one of those who decided to put down the game and venture outside? And in doing so, did you find that your relationship with your own authority and creativity was altered or strengthened?
Elijah: Indeed, I do. Initially, it took me some time to recognize the opportunities before me. However, once I immersed myself in writing poetry, often a daily ritual, I experienced a renewed sense of liberation. The words seemed to leap off the page, transporting me beyond the four walls I was confined to.
Alison: The beauty of words and poetry lies in their transformative power. It's fascinating that through the very act of writing, you found an escape, a portal beyond the tangible barriers.
Would you say that the discipline of a daily routine, in the midst of the external chaos, became a form of reclaiming your own "Authority", not just over your creativity but your emotional well-being as well?
Elijah: Absolutely. Growing up in a Christian home, I often heard that “idle hands are the devil’s workshop.” It wasn’t until my early to mid-twenties (I’m 34 now) that I recognized I thrived best with a semi-regular routine. I’m not one for monotonous work, but there’s a certain zen, or balance, derived from daily consistency.
Whether it be prep work in my old cafe/bar gig, or my Loss Prevention walks at Forever 21. Sewing and making alterations as a Tailor at Levi’s, or taking the same lunch break every day to call my daughter after school. Actively practicing a daily routine or ritual keeps me grounded, and creatively attuned. I just wish I could maintain it more often. Haha.
Alison: It's fascinating how foundational teachings, like the one about "idle hands," can find renewed relevance in our adult lives. Your insight about finding zen in routine, especially in unprecedented times, resonates with many, I'm sure.
Given the introspection and growth during this period, has this experience influenced how you might approach future challenges or opportunities? Will you seek that routine as a grounding force?
Elijah: I’d like to think so. That’s where the “new clarity and sanctions” emerge. Writing poetry every other day for nearly a year, and seeing what I achieved, I’ve come to value the importance of consistency for success and fulfillment. It’s all about showing up and doing the work, regardless of how I feel on a given day or whether it’s my best output.
Shifting from creativity for a moment, looking at my career, it’s this consistent effort, this act of showing up, that has allowed me to remain gainfully employed and take on various leadership roles since the age of 19. As for whether I find more fulfillment working for myself or for others, that’s a conversation for another day. Haha.
Alison: It's striking how the principle of consistency weaves its way through both your creative and professional endeavors. There's a powerful lesson there - that success, in any realm, often hinges on the tenacity to show up, even in the face of uncertainty or imperfection.
As you've experienced leadership roles and juggled your creative pursuits, do you believe "Authority" will serve as a touchstone for you in the future, reminding you of the importance of this consistency and the rewards it can bring?
Elijah: Definitely. In both my creative and professional journeys, I’ve found that through navigating the “dis-ease” and discomfort, I’ve been able to stay grounded yet vigilant. Though I aim to remain humble, I always have my eyes and soul set on what lies ahead.
Through consistently showing up, I’ve discovered a measure of peace and continued success. Even now, with the unease I feel sharing my personal life and experiences through “The Year I Became” newsletter, I’m confident that persistence will confirm I’ve made the right choice in doing so.
Alison: That balance — of being grounded yet ever-reaching, present yet future-focused — seems central to your journey. Many might shy away from discomfort, yet you’ve harnessed it, using it as a catalyst.
With "The Year I Became" newsletter, you're continuing that journey of vulnerability and exploration. Elijah, your story serves as a beacon for many, illustrating that pressing through challenges can lead to profound revelations and growth.
As we wrap up, do you have any final thoughts or words of encouragement for others navigating their own “dis-ease” and looking for their own form of "Authority"?
Elijah: “Tomorrow isn’t promised.” We can’t live in the future or the past, only in the present moment. So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, unappreciated, or stressed beyond belief, remember that if you’re reading or hearing this, your journey isn’t over.
Go outside. Seek something that elevates your spirit while also grounding you, paving the way for future strength and well-being. At times, the path may be solitary, but within that solitude and amidst that “dis-ease” lies the route to newfound clarity and authority.
Alison: What a potent message, Elijah. Embracing the present, finding grounding anchors, and recognizing the power within our challenges. Your words underscore the transformative journey you've undertaken, and they're bound to inspire others to discover their own paths of resilience and self-authority.
Thank you for sharing your insights and your poetry with us. It's been a privilege diving into this discussion with you.
Elijah: Thank you, Alison. It's been a pleasure.
Alison Baird is a journalistic chat not, powered by ChatGPT. This interview was edited with minor refinements aimed at retaining the essence of our original conversation while enhancing its readability and coherence.
