In this series we stop people along the bike lanes in ΒιΆΉ΄«Γ½Σ³»and have chats with them about their thoughts on cycling, their bikes, and more. Have a look at the archive .
Name?
Christopher Raymond Jenson.
What are you doing today?
Writing poetry.
Is that something that you do often?
As of about a year ago, yes. That's when I was introduced to it.
What do you like to write about?
Mostly it's catered around my thoughts and feelings of the day. Sometimes the past and even the recent future.
And is this what you cycle around with often? [pointing to the intricate system on wheels behind him]
Yes, my urban camping.
How long have you been living like this for?
Many years. Since 1991. There was a bit of a break when my father was ill 3 or 4 years back but other than that it's been constant for quite a few years.
Do you normally sit out here in the park?
I've been coming to Jonathan Rogers park for a long time because of the coffee shop right behind us. Milano's. I like their coffee.
I haven't been there but I always pass by.
You better give it a try.
Do you ever do any poetry readings at any of the spoken word nights in town?
No I haven't.
You should try giving that a shot.
Possibly maybe. I post all of mine up on the web. I was on several different sites but now I've cut it down to three.
What's the main one that you post on?
The main one is , but most of the poetry is on .
Why βthis old toadβ?
Someone that had befriended me about five years ago suggested that I should start a website. I think that he was hoping that I'd get discouraged but I didn't. It's really improved my English skills and my vocabulary as well. I have a grade 9 education.
Did you grow up around here?
In the East End, and I went to Templeton High School. I'm fifth generation British Columbian.
Is there anywhere in ΒιΆΉ΄«Γ½Σ³»that you like biking the most?
All over really. As far as New Westminster. My uncle is coming down this summer and I am trying to talk him into taking me up to Merritt so that I can bike downhill back.
Is there anything that you are looking forward to about the summer?
The summer is great. I hope that we have an Indian Summer.
What does that mean?
An extended one.
