Q&A with Axton Mitchell – Author Interview
Poetry has the power to challenge, comfort, and connect us, and few authors embrace that mission as openly as Axton Mitchell. Through his independent publishing platform, Poeaxtry’s Poetry Prism, Axton creates poetry, e-zines, journals, and community-driven projects that explore identity, resilience, grief, love, mental health, and the experiences that shape who we are. His work is unapologetically honest, deeply personal, and dedicated to amplifying voices that are too often overlooked.
In this Q&A, we sit down with Axton to discuss the inspiration behind his writing, the creative journey that led to Poeaxtry, and how storytelling can build understanding and connection. From interactive poetry zines to advocacy-focused publishing, Axton shares an authentic look at his work, his passions, and the experiences that continue to influence his unique creative voice.
About The Author
Tell us more about you.
I measure my creative output in miles. In 2025 alone, I hiked over 500 miles of trails, which most of my best stanzas actually materialize out there or on my way to and from there.
I grew up in the Ohio River Valley, moving between Wheeling, West Virginia and the Belmont County area of Ohio.
My favorite colors are neon yellow and electric blue, what can I say I like loud things usually.
What are the three items you’d take on a deserted island?
My dog but she’s my non-negotiable companion. That being said I’d bring a high quality foraging knife, a waterproof journal with a forever pens, and a life straw.
Who is your biggest role model?
I look at Hobo Johnson as a role model for my poetic work. He proves that emotional honesty is more powerful than perfect structure. His work reminds me that real art isn’t about being flawless; it’s about being brave enough to let the cracks show.
Like his music, my writing aims to capture that real, mid-sentence realization where the most growth actually happens. As well I love that his music stays in a formate that resembles and respects the art of poetry outside of the way most singers do it.
What is your favourite book and who is your favourite author?
My favorite authors are Sea Caummisar and C.V. Hunt because their work offers a unique kind of escapism. When you’ve lived through real-world trauma, mainstream stories can sometimes feel too polished or safe. Authors like Caummisar and Hunt are brutally realistic and creatively fearless; they don’t shy away from the darkness, which actually makes their work feel more honest and grounding.
Do you prefer e-books, physical books or audiobook?
I love a physical book for the feel in your hand and the smell of course. However, I love the accessibility both digital books and audiobooks provide though I do not use audiobooks for myself because my attention span does not allow for the use of them.
Is writing your full-time profession or a hobby?
I am a full-time state tasted nursing assistant. I also own a spiritual & artistic small business called Poeaxtry_ I sell my digital content, tarot & pendulum readings, hand crafted jewelry from stones and more. I have a plan to transition more into working for others less and myself more.
What social media platform do you like and use the most?
Links to my socials:
Your Writing Process
How do you go about starting a new novel?
I plan out my poetry collections either by theme or by periods of time I call seasons of life. I map out the full map of what I will do on each page then I build them in Canva pro without the use of ai of course.
Where do you like to write?
I draft my poetry by talk to text in Google keep while I’m at work, commuting, or hiking those are the typical times I hit flow state. I edit my rough talk to text drafts in free time when I’m not in flow.
What do you like most about writing?
The release it provides me. I have a hard time fully expressing myself when talking vocally this provides me that area. Moving forward I am working on more creative works to express another side of me as well.
What do you find stops you from writing more?
The executive dysfunction of neurodivergence, capitalism, and the rest of my responsibilities. The starving artist trope is for more than just visual artists for sure.
What genres do you like to write and why?
Outside of poetry I am playing with horror-gore, splatter-punk, and psychological thrillers in some of my next few collections.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to aspiring writers?
You can keep editing and editing and re-editing but it won’t be perfect nothing ever is. Or you could get it to the point of editing that style changes are all you’re tweaking and put it out only one produces a finished book.
Showcase Your Book!
How many books have you written and if more than one, what’s your favourite?
Ezines have roughly 20-25 poems, ebooks have 50+
How long did the e-zines take you to write?
I started and finished all five e-zines and their downloads from July 2025 to September 2025.
Lastly, what is your favourite thing about being an author?
The ability it gives me to help others who feel misunderstood, unheard, or unable to express themselves.
