Matthew Presite

Name: Matthew Presite

Grade: 10

Category: Poetry

Title: “How to Break a Poem”

Who/what inspired you to submit to the Scholastic Art and Writing Competition?

“I’m not a big reader, but I was inspired by a few poems I’d seen online and at school. I’ve always been impressed by authors and wanted to start small by trying poetry.”

What do you like about it?

“Poetry lets me express myself in different ways than I normally would.”

What are you most proud of?

“I’m proud of the fact that what started as really rough drafts became poems that expressed my point of view about the world.”

What do you look to for inspiration for pieces?

“I write about what I see and what I know. It’s interesting to pair these things with larger issues or feelings.”

How does it feel to be a Gold Key Winner?

“This is my first major writing award, and honestly it’s the first time I considerably revised pieces, so the win feels pretty amazing because the hard work paid off.”

Who is your favorite author/artist?  What is one outstanding quote or piece from that author/artist that inspires you?

“Billy Collins and Donald Hall are both incredible poets. ‘The Art of Drowning’ is probably my favorite poem right now.”

Describe your winning piece.

“Both poems are about pushing against what I’m supposed to feel or do, and finding the strength to make my own way.”