Breath clouds

Willem Janssen (1978) is a Dutch musician, poet and teacher of Dutch as a Second Language.

This is his English poetry debut Breath Clouds. Next to this bundle, he simultaneously released a collection of his Dutch poetry by the name of Ademwolken. Together, these two bundles form a tangible result of an intensive 365-day challenge, in which Janssen posted one spoken word video online every day. All 365 videos, produced by Frans van Gastel (You Echo), can be found at www.breathclouds.com.

Breath Clouds are mostly short poetic observations. Sometimes cheerful, but more often of melancholic nature. Janssen’s style is both clear and concise. The following ‘breath cloud’ might be a good example of what he’s trying to achieve through his poetry:

Strive to combine

I strive to combine

Content with a strong punch line

It would really make me sick

If I’d continue for the sake of it

And add words that no one needs

Just to satisfy my greed.

Cover design: You Echo

Photo on back cover: Teis Albers