It's official! My first interview for J. Expressions with none other than the lovely poet Stephanie Davis. Stephanie was my first choice to open the interview series because if it wasn't for her, I may not have started the project. She was the one who invited me to be part of No Longer Empty's Jameco Exchange exhibition and that is where I began J. Expressions! So thank you to her and I hope you enjoy the interview and her poem!
1. Tell the readers about who you are as a literary artist.
I am a poet. It feels good to simply say this is who I am as an artist. Many times, I have to add to that statement to appeal to standards of success. I’m also interested in writing more non-fiction, but my passion is poetry. I am currently studying poetry (and more) as an MFA candidate at Vanderbilt University in Nashville.
2. What writing projects are you currently developing?
I am currently working on my graduate thesis, which I hope to turn into my first chapbook or full-length collection. In this series of poems, I want to capture the multitude of voices and stories from my hometown, Jamaica, Queens. It has a very rich history and continues to be home to many cultures. Although I no longer live there, I carry my experiences, its diversity, and unique character with me, always. I hope I do it justice when I put it all on the page.
3. Who are some of your favorite writers and authors who inspired your writing?
Many of my favorite writers are poets whose work has strong narratives centered on their hometowns and whose language is simple yet complicating, which transforms their personal experiences into universal experiences. Philip Levine’s work on Detroit does this seamlessly; I’ve been studying him for a while. Also Ray Gonzalez with Texas and the Southwest and Elizabeth Alexander with Philly. Some of my other favorite writers include Jericho Brown, Geffrey Davis, and Kendra DeColo.
4. What is your experience so far doing an MFA? What advice do you have for writers who are thinking of doing the same?
As my mentors have told me, an MFA allows you the privilege of time and space to read, write, and work on your craft. So far, I am enjoying the time to think about my writing and where I want it to go. Being in a program has also expanded my literary connections and opportunities. For those looking to enter an MFA program, be sure that pursuing this degree is what you really want to do. Let your passion guide you, but also be pragmatic in your expectations of a program and the literary industry. Also know that you don’t need an MFA to pursue whatever your goals are as a literary artist. An MFA is just one road of many.
5. How did Southeast Queens inspire and shape your writing?
As I mentioned when describing my thesis, my hometown is always with me. Whenever I’m given a writing prompt or assignment, it’s usually another opportunity for me to write about Queens. I can’t help it. It’s what I’m obsessed with currently. Growing up and living in Southeast Queens continues to inspire my writing. I’m excited about sharing it (the good and the bad) with others through my work.
6. Do you think it is necessary to grow the literary community in the Southeast Queens area? How would you like to see the Southeast Queens literary community grow?
Absolutely. A stronger literary community would be advantageous artistically as well as educationally and would help foster Queens artists like myself. More readings, writing workshops, and events with visiting writers would expose the community to different forms of literature and ways to channel their creativity. There is already a lot of great work being done by organizations such as No Longer Empty and Jamaica Is and also by Queens residents such as yourself. Let’s keep the momentum going. Keep up the awesome work!
I know somethin’ bout talking with ghosts
After Yusef Komunyakaa’s “Blue Dementia”
In their dust-dimmed jackets –
they gather at the bus stop
holding Marlboros between
their lips, loading onto the Q111
with breathe-heavy strides.
Haunted by youth and time
they stare at me with grins
Passing by Baisley Projects,
where they carried jukeboxes
heavy window as if pleading
cigarettes were a quarter.
