Kim Addonizio: Self Portrait of a Goldfish Trapped on a Toilet

"Self-Portrait of a Goldfish Trapped on a Toilet" by Kim Addonizio is a poem that exemplifies her distinctive blend of wit, introspection, and vivid imagery. In discussing her creative process, Addonizio reveals that the poem began with the lines:

"These are the givens:
What enters us will change us.
What we love will be taken."

From this foundation, she allowed her imagination to flow freely, incorporating elements such as a malfunctioning toilet and an encounter with Martha Stewart in a restaurant. This approach highlights her method of following associative threads rather than adhering to a strict narrative, resulting in a piece that is both thought-provoking and richly layered.

Kim Addonizio is a celebrated author of seven poetry collections, two novels, two story collections, and two books on writing poetry, including The Poet’s Companion (with Dorianne Laux) and Ordinary Genius. Her poetry collection Tell Me was a finalist for the National Book Award. In 2023, she served as a faculty member at the Port Townsend Writers Conference, sharing her expertise and passion for poetry with participants.

Addonizio's work is known for its accessibility and emotional depth, often exploring themes of love, loss, and the human condition. "Self-Portrait of a Goldfish Trapped on a Toilet" is a testament to her ability to intertwine the mundane with the profound, inviting readers to reflect on the unexpected intersections of daily life and inner contemplation.