· R L · powell (he :: they) is a writer of poetry, prose, and whatever happens to be in-between. Over the past two decades, his work has appeared online and in print—and he is presently completing a lyric manuscript, Any Cure as Flat as Salt. Much of their current writing explores their experience with neurodivergence, queerness, and long-term disability—but his interests and subject matter often gravitate toward the surreal, the offbeat, and what is undeniably peculiar.

 

While much of their inspiration is rooted in a profound love of the English language and its poetic legacy, · R L · s greatest influences have been diverse—ranging from the speculative traditions of fiction & film; to abstract and conceptual play found in philosophy & cultural theory; alongside more reflective and contemplative works of memoir & science studies.

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· R L · specialized in English literature the University of Toronto, with a minor in Paradigms & Archetypes. Though since retired, the latter was an off-beat program designed around a hodgepodge of semiotics, 20th century critical theory; science studies; and Jungian psychology. He was awarded his Honours BA with High Distinction, an went on to earn an MA in English Language & Literatures from Queen’s University, Kingston.

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· R L ·  returned to the UofT to pursue doctoral studies the philosophy of science & literature, and 20th century American modernism. During his time in the program, they taught classes on critical theory, American literature, and strategies of rhetoric in research—all at the undergraduate level. His time in the classroom proved to be one of the most rewarding experiences of his career—and teaching remains a large part of his ambition in life.

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Following the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, It was clear that his priorities had shifted away from academic scholarship. They parted ways with doctoral studies in late 2022—ABD, and in good standing. At present, they are an MFA candidate at the Bennington Writing Seminars.

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· R L · is happy to answer any questions you may have about their work or upcoming projects—and he would like to remind you that you’re doing a magnificent job of being yourself.