5 Things We Learned... Josh Geffin

Josh Geffin is a musician and writer based in London currently studying a Masters in Creative Writing at Goldsmiths, University of London. His poetry explores themes of attention, humour and memory. He has been published in The Rialto magazine and The Friday Poem and his music has been used on Netflix, BBC, and Channel 4. He is also a certified mindfulness teacher and has taught sessions at Paramount Pictures, WeWork and London South Bank University.

Here are 5 Things We Learned about Josh.

What made you...you?

I grew up with alternative-minded, creative parents. My father ran an esoteric bookshop and is also a big music fan. My mother passed on her love of literature and writing. I also had a lot of arty friends in school and my late teens was an important time of creative flowering. I’ve been influenced as well by Zen Buddhism; by contemporary poetry; and a continuing fondness for the British countryside. 

When are you happiest?

When I’m creating, that moment of creation, when something has emerged that feels truthful, exciting, beautiful. 

Would you rather have a muse or be a muse?

Have! Having a muse has definitely been a catalyst for writing songs and poems over the years… it could be fun to be one though!

Who do you admire?

Leonard Cohen for occupying an unusual place amongst rock musicians of humility and sagacity. Billy Collins, the American poet, for his approachable, funny and wise poems. My girlfriend for her consideration of others.

What is important?

Health. Nature. Art. Friendship. Thankfulness.