London Writers' Salon #157: Joseph Fasano – How to Think Like a Poet: Unlock Rhythm, Creative Freedom & the Courage to Create
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Aug 9, 2025 
Award-winning poet, novelist, and teacher Joseph Fasano shares insights on finding one's voice in poetry and creative writing. He discusses his journey from astrophysics to lyrical storytelling and emphasizes the importance of constraints in unlocking creativity. Fasano explores building a meaningful online presence while encouraging aspiring poets to embrace their unique styles. He also highlights practical writing prompts, the significance of community, and the intertwining of spirituality with artistic expression. Tune in for advice on navigating the poetry landscape!
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Reading Before Writing
- Read poems first to 'fill your ear' so you have sounds and cadences to write from.
- Joseph Fasano says reading is inhaling and writing is exhaling, so inhale before you exhale on the page.
Teenage Poem 'Gallop'
- Joseph Fasano wrote a teenage poem called 'Gallop' that his mother saved and that he still finds comforting.
- He uses that early image-work to process grief across his life.
From Physics To Philosophy
- Fasano began in astrophysics and mathematics but switched to philosophy when he wanted to turn his lens inward.
- That intellectual shift toward language and meaning led him into poetry and graduate study.
