My AfroRican State of Soul: A Journey of Identidad, Struggle, Love & Faith takes readers on a journey with you of self-discovery and an exploration of what it means to identify as multicultural through your poetry. Why was this an important collection for you to share?

I firmly believe in the transformative power of storytelling. It possesses the remarkable ability to not only save lives and resolve conflicts but also to unite communities and, yes, even foster love between individuals. My poetry collection serves as a testament to the authentic narratives of my upbringing in a ghetto where resources were scarce. From the trials I’ve faced to the unexpected love I discovered for an absent father, each verse reflects the experiences that have shaped my identity.

It was essential for me to share these stories, mirroring the tradition of tribes and ancestors passing down their tales. Our stories are the threads that weave together our collective history, filled with both pain and joy. Through sharing our stories, we find solace, healing, and rediscover ourselves. With decades of development behind me, I’ve finally compiled these experiences into a book to share with the world, especially those who grapple with their true identity, battle imposter syndrome and systemic racism, and those that still believe deeply that love is the ultimate answer.

Can you share the name of a poem that holds a special place in your heart? 

Numerous poems in my collection hold a special place in my heart, but as I reflect on them now, one particular piece stands out: “Mama’s Love Songs”.

If so, what makes it so meaningful to you? 

What makes “Mama’s Love Songs” particularly poignant to me is the unwavering commitment it embodies. Despite enduring abuse, heartbreaks, and loss in her own love life, my mother remained resolute in her devotion to showering her sons with love. Through her pain, she sang melodies of love, nurturing us into compassionate men even in the absence of a partner to call her own. Her five boys became her world, and she would often declare, “No man will ever come between my boys and me.” Even now, I can still feel the overwhelming warmth of her love enveloping me.

Do you plan to write any more collections?

Yes.

If so, what topics will your next work focus on and when can readers expect its publication? 

I’m in the process of crafting a collection of bilingual love poems that delve into various forms of love — for our children, parents, friends, siblings, and even strangers. It’s an exploration of how we nurture love in a world where hate seems to lurk around every corner, saturating our news media and perpetuating societal divisions rooted in classism.

Though I don’t have a precise release date yet, I’m aiming for the beginning of 2025. Securing a publisher might expedite the process, potentially bringing the publication date forward.

Author links: Website | TikTok