Jesse Strickland unconventionally emerged from the Berkeley California punk scene as a poet and musician and has garnered a successful following and an underground cult status in the poetry community despite his unorthodox writing style and lack of self promotion. He was involved with the 924 Gilman st project a self funded all ages venue that brought punk and counterculture into the mainstream, and launched such bands as Green day and Rancid. He has shunned the live readings and book tours stating a "difference of artistic integrity" He also refuses to divulge any of the details as to the inspiration or meanings behind his poems, stating simply "whatever they mean to you, then that's what they are, whatever emotion they evoke, then that's my gift to you" Recently it was announced that a long awaited second Book has been confirmed for publication causing a buzz among collectors and fans wondering if they will actually ee the artist in a live reading or not.