Huascar Medina, Poet Laureate of Kansas (2019-2021), is the Lit Editor for seveneightfive magazine and an Op-Ed writer for Kansas Reflector. He’s published two collections of poetry Un Mango Grows in Kansas (2020) and How to Hang the Moon (2017). His words have appeared in The New York Times, Latino Book Review and elsewhere.
It is what it is.
Unknown
What does this quote mean to you?
A constant reminder that at the end of the day the universe will always have the last word.
What books have made an important impact on you and why?
“A Separate Peace” by John Knowles. At a young age, I learned that rivalry is the ego at war with itself.
What is the value of writing and art in the current state of the world?
I commend creatives who expend so much energy trying to add light. When hope is a scarcity their work naturally intensifies. They shine a bit more through the darkness. I view this abundance of output as a vigil for opportunity. A chance to see things in a new light —a beacon.
How has writing and art helped to form the person you are today?
Poetry is a lens I apply outward and inward to observe, explore, evaluate, document and admire life. I am more aware with poetry.
What is something that matters to you?
My family, love, being kind, truth, equality and compassion. Being supportive of creatives. Finding/creating and accepting peace. Words.
South Broadway Ghost Society 