A conversation with Jide Badmus
The cycle of writing isn’t complete if no reader exists. – Jide Badmus
In an interview with PurpleWorld correspondent Grace Oni, Jide Badmus, a multitalented poet, engineer, and book reviewer, unveils his creative journey of self-discovery and passion, offering insights into his unique blend of artistic and technical pursuits.
Can we meet you? Just tell us something brief about yourself?
My name is Jide Badmus. I’m a husband and father of two daughters. I stand with girls. I’m an engineer by day and a poet at night. An editor and book reviewer. I’m from Omido, Kwara State; born and bred in Ilorin. A Christian. A soccer lover.
I love and write from Lagos.
Brief us on your writing journey and what motivates you to write.
I started writing at a tender age. But I got conscious of my poetry in 2002. I have 4 books of poetry and several chapbooks; I think 7. I have also curated and edited five anthologies. I am inspired by beauty and destruction. Nature is also a strong muse. Everything around me begs to be written into verses.
Earlier you mentioned that you’re an engineer, so how do you balance work and writing together?
Engineering takes me around. I make use of my transit periods to read, develop ideas, and write. Travelling is a whole experience worthy of expression as poetry. I find ways of applying poetry to engineering and vice versa.
Do you explore other genres aside from poetry?
Yes. Short fiction and personal essays. I write reviews on books, movies, and music too.
What are the main thematic preoccupations of your poems?
Spirituality and sensuality. Hope & healing.
Which work(s) or which writer(s) influences your works?
At first, it was Niyi Osundare & John Pepper Clark. Later on, Amu Nnadi and Uche Nduka.Lately, Li-Young Lee, Jane Hirshfield, and Carl Philips.I’m inspired by young Nigerian poets generally.
What major roles does poetry play in society? Why do you think we should prioritise it? Do you think any good can come from writing poetry?
This is the kind of question I run away from. Poetry is an art. What role does art play in society? I think poetry should be enjoyed. However anyone wishes to employ it; it should be enjoyed. I don’t think it’s fair to place any form of burden or responsibility on poetry. If I may twist the question, what roles do movies, paintings, and music play in society? Do you think any good can come from them? I don’t think poetry should be given as a prescription. Well, many people will disagree with me. But, yeah, poetry is first an art.
What about other genres? Is it the same for them?
I don’t see people asking what role fiction plays in society.
And what do you think about that?
Art shouldn’t be burdened with social responsibilities; it goes for every form and genre. And don’t get me wrong; what I mean is that it shouldn’t be their primary role. Art is art. Whatever comes from art is a bonus.
Great! Do you earn from poetry?
Yes.
Like I said earlier, I do edit jobs, I write reviews, I get appearance fees for events, and I’m invited to run workshops and writing masterclasses.
For those who don’t know that one can monetize poetry writing and are willing to, how do you think they can go about it?
Basically, you need to grow your art; attain a level of mastery. Grow a following. Put your services out there.You may at certain points have to render free services (many don’t like to hear this, but it’s true) and offer yourself up for internships. Keep abreast of current trends and opportunities.It’s a journey.
As writers, why do you think we should build our visibility?
Like the Bible says, no one lights a candle and puts it under the table. Art is meant to be shared. And if you would make money from your art, people have to actually see what you can do—see your track record. The cycle of writing isn’t complete if no reader exists.
What advice can you give to emerging writers who have been so eager to hear from you?
Write. Write. Write. That’s the only way to get better. Be a member of a writers’ community. Read, study, and seek knowledge always. Be aware of your environment. Be inquisitive as a child. Write. Write. Write like your life depends on it.
