Interview with Sebastian Dureaux-Russell, Author of Ethan Frome Sled

What’s the story behind the book? What inspired Ethan Frome Sled?

In high school, I dubbed my b/w marbled poetry journal “The Catharsis,” but that changed to its current title after I drafted a poem about the dissolution of a relationship. Ethan Frome Sled reflects the isolation I felt after moving to a cabin in the Poconos during the worst winter in 200 years.

If you had to pick three songs that reflect Ethan Frome Sled, what would they be?

“Winter Kills” by Yaz, “Maggie’s Farm” by Bob Dylan, and “October” by U2, in that order.

Name some poets who were influential to your work?

Diane Wakoski’s “Motorcycle Betrayal Poems” has long been a favorite. Shelley, Whitman, McKuen, Parker, Sexton, Smith. However, the sheer force of Sylvia Plath’s voice in “Ariel” struck me the hardest and remains the most influential on my matter-of-fact vocal delivery.

What historical poet of yore would you most like to share a cup of coffee with or a drink in a quiet place?

Rod McKuen and I did that in NYC, but in a time-travel machine, I would love to engage John Keats or Rupert Brooke in a discussion of romance…

Which classic style of poem structure best suits your style?

I started with rhyme and prose, which poetical snobs don’t consider real poetry. I’ve since adapted myself to the villanelle (which I bastardized into my own style, called a “Sebastianelle,” and later copyrighted). I also write plenty of sonnets. When I studied under award-winning poet Marie Ponsot, I dabbled in iambic pentameter and hexasyllables. I also enjoy didactic quatrains.

Describe the category of poet you should be filed under?

Modern, with a classical twist.

What current poetry books are on your TBR pile right now?

“Clavicle” by Tess Kincaid, “White Wing, Black Wing” by Gary Garafola, and “An Anthem for Orpheus” by Eric Thomas Norris.

Do you have any ritualistic writing habits?

My muse is an autographed photo of Ernest Hemingway from 1927, which I found by fate in an antique store for $5. “Ernie” advises me from atop my writing desk.

How does Ethan Frome Sled reflect your motto or philosophy of life?

The sled is a metaphor. In the film Citizen Kane, “Rosebud” was a symbol of youthful indulgence or freedom. In Edith Wharton’s Ethan Frome, the sled became an instrument of the crash. The vehicle that will cripple you and keep you forever stuck in a bleak, frozen hell. In my poetical rendition, it’s the leap off the sled that’s the metaphor for freedom. To change your mind, change your life’s course. A refusal to stick on a track with someone who will be your downfall.