Robert DeMartini is a poet and guitarist attending Skyline College. He is a music major who has been writing poetry since the 6th grade.
“After I write something, I feel like I understand more about life,” DeMartini revealed about his motives for writing. “I write on the way to work, but I can’t write when I’m bored.”
For Demartini, writing is therapeutic. “I write about being down a lot. I’m not a negative person at all, but it gets a monkey off my back.”
His favorite writing subjects include skepticism and how jaded many people in our society can be. He also enjoys flipping between positive and bright writing and then contrasting with more dark elements.
“Most recently I’ve been writing about being filthy, about being a sinner and atonement”, said Demartini.
His religious background is often his muse, and writing helps him re¬late with God. He grew up listening to music in his church band, which has greatly influenced his choice to pursue music. His influences are mostly lyrical poets such as James Hetfield of Metallica and Jack White of The White Stripes for his direct style of writing.
“I believe music is a gift from God. In the same way you want to impress your father, you want to show him what you have done,” said Demartini.
“Originally, my writing and mu¬sic were driven by jealousy. I wanted to be as good as my friends and the artists I listened to. Now I write more for myself and my passion.”
While most of DeMartini’s work is spoken word, he is currently look¬ing for a band to use his rhyming poems as lyrics. He plays piano for an hour a day and wants to start exploring open mics.
“Music has a paralyzing effect. It gives you the chills and soothes you at the same time,” says Demartini.
GRIND
This time I lay naked,
With clothes on my back,
Anxiety brewing,
Cranium packed.
Shamefully ponder
This web that Iv spun,
Shamefully wonder
How status is won.
Feet first I land,
Because headfirst I fall,
Walk with my legs?
Iv shattered it all.
See with my eyes?
I’d rather be blind.
It’s hard to sit still
When my gears only grind.
(This article photo caption has been edited to include a caption)
