Blind poet finds release through his words

James Bryant has been living in the dark for 20 years, but his creativity and writings have inspired him to start a group for poets in Sedalia.

Bryant, 39, was born with Marfan syndrome, a disorder of the connective tissues that can cause problems in the skeletal system, cardiovascular system, eyes and skin.

“I’m totally blind and hearing impaired,” Bryant said.

He began writing poetry shortly after he lost his sight at the age of 19. At the time he did not have a computer so he used an electronic typewriter to express his feelings.

“That’s how I communicate, with my poetry,” Bryant said.

Bryant said his poetry reflects his feelings during difficult and joyful times of his life.

“The first phase of my writing career came off as very sappy and lovely,” Bryant said.

He was inspired to write after meeting a woman through an online chat room. Bryant said the two had a brief love affair and she was his first true love.

“I expressed my desire through my poetry,” he said.

After the affair ended, Bryant was destroyed emotionally which changed the way he wrote.

“When the relationship ended, it knocked the door wide open for me,” Bryant said.

His most recent work is more mature and sophisticated.

“I like intellectually based poems,” Bryant said.

Some of his poems seem dark and dreary, but many reflect love and his observations. Bryant said he has not produced any new poetry since 2005, but wanted to start a group for people who enjoy reading or writing poetry.

“First and foremost, it’s just a get together of like-minded poets in Sedalia and other areas,” Bryant said.
He already has a group name, OIC and is waiting for at least five members to meet on a regular basis to read and discuss poetry.

Bryant has recorded his poetry and hopes to compile a CD using his studio at his apartment. He said if there is enough interest in the group he would encourage members to write and record their poetry to compile a CD to sell and donate profits to animalFAIR, an organization that helps find homes for cats and dogs.

“I want to give back as much as I can,” Bryant said.

One of Bryant’s best friends is his cat Banshee which he adopted through animalFAIR.

“She’s my pride and joy,” he said.

Any poets interested in joining the group can contact Bryant by visiting oicstudios.com