Best places to listen/read Chris’ poetry:

1. Purchase Under the Big Oak Tree for the full debut collection.
2. Follow Chris on TikTok at @chrisgallantpoetry
3. Follow Chris on Instagram at @thechrisgallant
4. Subscribe to his newsletter for exclusive poems & information.

Sometimes I go weeks or months without writing a poem. Sometimes I write seven in a day. It’s often sparked by a strong emotional reaction to something in my life— which could be joy, sadness, anger, anything. There are days though where I just want to write to write. On those days I’ll look up prompts/poems online, dig into old pieces, or even just look around the space I’m in and run with whatever sparks my imagination. That’s actually how my piece “For You” in Under the Big Oak Tree came to be.

I actually love this question, because public speaking is a topic that’s really important to me. In short— yes! I absolutely get nervous.It’s a natural feeling that many poets, performers, and speakers experience. However, I’ve learned nerves can be transformed into positive energy that adds excitement and authenticity to my performance.

One important thing to remember is that the audience is genuinely interested in what you have to say. They want you to succeed and connect with them. Sometimes, it may seem like they’re disinterested or unresponsive, but it’s often due to the nature of group settings where people don’t express the same non-verbal cues as they do in one-on-one conversations. It’s called the bystander effect. So, even if they aren’t visibly nodding or making direct eye contact, it doesn’t mean they aren’t engaged.

The best advice I can offer is to embrace your nerves and channel them into your performance. Remember that the audience is on your side and rooting for you. Focus on delivering something memorable, interesting, thought-provoking, and engaging. With practice and experience, the nervousness tends to diminish, but it’s important to recognize that it’s a normal part of the process. So, the next time you do feel that way, remind yourself that your audience is eager to listen and connect with you. Embrace the opportunity to share your voice and leave a lasting impression.

Best way I can describe it is “up and to the right of Maine.” But it’s a beautiful province on the East Coast of Canada. I wake up to the Atlantic Ocean outside my window every morning.

The story of how it all came together is in the 4th chapter of Under the Big Oak Tree. Look for the title “Mollique’s Birthday.”

To book Chris for your school, work, or event, please reach out to us at chris@chrisgallant.ca. In your email, kindly provide us with the following details: the type of event you’re organizing, the location, preferred date and time, available funding or budget, and any specific requirements or expectations you have. We will promptly review your request and do our best to accommodate your needs. We look forward to discussing the opportunity to bring Chris’s captivating poetry to your audience.