In this episode of On Creative Writing, host Sheelagh Caygill sits down with Canadian poet Kim Mannix to discuss Kim's debut poetry collection, Confirm Humanity, published in October 2025 by Wild Skies Press. Kim shares insights into her journey as a writer, beginning with her background in journalism and how it has influenced her approach to poetry.

Kim talks about the ways in which her experience as a journalist—her attention to detail, curiosity, and ability to distill complex stories—translates into her poetic voice, allowing her to capture both the personal and the universal in her work.

They explore the themes that run through Confirm Humanity, including grief, motherhood, and the impact of global violence. Kim describes how poetry has become a vital tool for processing difficult emotions and making sense of the world’s chaos. She discusses the therapeutic aspects of writing, and how putting feelings into words can offer both solace and clarity.

Kim reads four poems from Confirm Humanity, including ”Disturbing the Peace” and ”Watercolour.” Kim introduces each poem, offering context about their origins and the emotions behind them. She explains how prompts—whether from writing groups, workshops, or her own curiosity—often spark her creative process, pushing her to explore new ideas and perspectives. Kim shares anecdotes about how certain poems emerged from unexpected moments or observations, highlighting the serendipitous nature of inspiration.

The episode also touches on Kim’s fascination with true crime and unsolved cases, a theme she hints will be central to a future chapbook project. She discuss the ethical considerations of writing about real-life tragedies, and how poetry can offer a space to honor victims’ stories while grappling with the complexities of justice and memory. Kim reflects on the responsibility writers have when engaging with sensitive material, and how she strives to approach these subjects with empathy and respect.

Kim also talks about her role as board president of the the Edmonton Poetry Festival, reflecting on the importance of community and collaboration in the literary world. She emphasizes how being part of a vibrant poetry scene has shaped her own writing and provided opportunities to connect with other poets and readers.

Kim has lived in many places in Canada and now lives in Sherwood Park, Alberta. She offers advice for aspiring poets, encouraging them to embrace vulnerability, seek out supportive communities, and remain open to experimentation. She underscores the value of reading widely and engaging with diverse voices, noting how exposure to different styles and perspectives has enriched her own work. The episode concludes with Kim sharing her hopes for the impact of Confirm Humanity, expressing a desire for readers to find connection, comfort, and a sense of shared humanity in her poems.

Find Kim's book in all independent bookstores and online, and find Kim at Makesmesodigress.com.