Poet/singer/songwriter  Aaron Lair is no stranger to adversity.  After contracting transverse myelitis in 2004, which causes swelling in the spine, and suffering a stroke from a blood clot, Laird was paralyzed. Through ironclad determination and arduous work, he regained the use of his arm and started writing poetry, which eventually led to music.  Laird has rapidly become a dramatic force in the poetry recitation and alternative rock scenes.

After reading Laird’s compilation of poetry, I felt that he had been tossed to and fro in a dark sea.  Always wanting to surface only to be pulled back into the abyss.  On a brighter note, his most recent annotations have somewhat of Dr. Seuss’ flair to them!  If you enjoy reading poetry, you will want to peruse this five star read!  And now for the interview...

 1.  What is the one thing, you would like people to know about you?

I have lupus, which caused me to become paralyzed. In turn, my writing poetry began after having surgery for a skin pressure ulcer. The resulting one month of ordered bed rest served as my muse. This expanse of time inspired me to let whatever came to mind simply flow out, so to speak. At the time, I was typing on my laptop in bed, which proved to be considerably more convenient than a pencil and paper.

2.  How would you describe your book to readers? 

In his ethereal book of poetry, Blue Lightning, Aaron Laird transcends space and time to bring this collection of poems to the world. With historical, contemporary, and philosophical poems, there's something for everyone. His vivid imagery, sharp use of language, and existential ideas will make you stop and think about the world around you. Don't miss out on this powerful compilation: Blue Lightning.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thNxhx7fdAI

3.  What is your greatest desire in life?

I wish to ultimately walk again someday. As of yet, I have recently been able to get some small amount of leg movement when my Physiatrist (physical therapy doctor) most recently tested my amount of recovery this past July 31. I aim to build on that through rigorous physical therapy on a regular basis to increase my return of movement, over time.

4.  What are you currently reading?

The Bhagavad-Gita Hindu religious book edited by Barbara Stoler Miller and a Buddhist Scriptures religious book edited by Betty Radice for the Comparative Religion college course that I am currently taking.

5.  How can readers contact you or purchase your book?

Besides being for sale at my publisher's website, it may also be found at a number of major bookstores.

https://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=978-1-

61346-720-6

The most prominent site is Amazon.  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1613467206/ref=kinw_rke_tl_1

BLUE LIGHTNING

I hear a sound so frightening.

Hark, I see blue lightning.

I see a turquoise mist;

it's itching at my wrist.

I hear a distant thunder

as my mind starts to wander.

Blue lightning strikes without a sound, 

soft yet dangerous on the ground.