Alissa Appel: What kind of work does VLQ look for?

C.E. Laine: VLQ likes in-your-face poems and colorful (or dramatic black and white) art. No rhyme. No angst. VLQ seeks unusual language and interesting ideas.

AA:What insprired you to form VLQ?

CL: The original inspiration was simply the title...verse libre. This title was inspired by one of my mother's engraved bookplates. It was my goal to present a compelling collection of poems and art, and to promote poets and poetry in that process.

AA: Advice to writers?

CL: Persistance.
Tenacity.
Grow a thick skin.
Write until your hand cramps.
You can't please everyone; don't try.
Read. A lot.
It isn't personal.