PORTER, Martin Jon

Degree

Diploma of Arts (Professional Writing and Editing)

Graduation year

2002

Current position

Poet

Employer

Atmosphere Press

What are some of your career highlights?

My highlight is always the creative process. Fortunately, this has culminated in three books of my poetry being published – Traits (2016), No Home Like a Raft (2019) and Streetscapes (2021).

Describe the most enjoyable and challenging aspects of your job

For me, writing is not a job – it’s a passion and way of life. I didn’t choose to be a writer, it’s just who I am. The most enjoyable aspect is expressing my view of the world in the hope that other people will be able to connect with it, and maybe even help them in some way. Both writing and reading can be healing. The hardest part is promoting my own work – I’d much prefer someone else do this for me, although I am becoming more comfortable with it.

What are your strongest memories while you were studying at the University?

My strongest memories are more cognitive rather than vivid – probably having the time to read widely, to question, develop critical thinking skills as well as work with and learn from open-minded and diverse people.

Do you have any advice about life after study to pass on to current students?

In the first few years of your profession, whatever that may be, develop communication skills that can be used to deal with people in the most constructive manner. How can the best be brought out of a person or situation? Also, realise that processes and outcomes form systems. Observe and analyse their effectiveness – how can they improve?