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Reclaim My Voice

Author Interview
Rebecca Dietrich Author Interview

Scholar of the Arts and Inhumanities is a collection of modern poetry that explores the themes of love, loss, and reclamation of self. Why was this an important book for you to share?

I wanted to release the trauma that had been caged inside me. Writing this book and sharing it was a way to reclaim my voice that had been silent for too long.

Do you have a favorite selection in your collection? One that especially resonates with you?

My favorite would have to be “Canary”. I wrote it about a dear friend and mentor of mine. She was my canary. She was brave enough to sing the truth, even when it hurt.

I appreciated the candid nature with which you express yourself through your poetry. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?

Besides all of it? I would say the hardest part to write was the truth. It would have been easier to change details or just not write certain poems, but then the authenticity would have been lost. I do want to write sanitized poetry.

What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?

I’m working on a psychology thriller about a young woman who discovers the man she loves is a monster. It’s written in an epistolary format where the reader is a member of the jury. I hope to have it finished before the end of summer.

Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon

“Scholar of the Arts and Inhumanities” is an evocative collection of poems that dives deep into the complexities of human existence, painting vivid portraits of emotions, relationships, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. Through its poignant verses, this anthology offers a profound exploration of life’s intricate tapestry.
The collection opens with a series of poems that grapple with the multifaceted nature of love and loss. It navigates the terrain of heartbreak, longing, and the unexpected twists that life often presents. The poems in this section serve as a testament to the enduring power of the heart, even in the face of profound sorrow.
These verses celebrate the healing potential of the natural world, where a canary’s song becomes a catalyst for profound revelation. These poems resonate with the gentle interplay between inner and outer landscapes, inviting readers to find solace in the embrace of the world around them.
This collection confronts themes of empowerment and triumph over adversity. Poems such as “Vengeful Spirit” embody a spirit’s quest for justice, unearthing the echoes of wrongs committed against her. “Trauma Bond” delves into the intricate dance between vulnerability and strength, illustrating the arduous journey to break free from a suffocating past.
Throughout the collection, timely societal issues find voice in poems like “Lockdown,” providing a stark reflection on the toll of trauma within a generation accustomed to violence. “Unfair” challenges established notions of fairness and inclusion, encouraging individuals to forge their own paths when denied a place at the table.
“Reclaim” and “Chokehold” echo themes of empowerment, urging individuals to seize control of their destinies and cast off the shackles of past traumas. “Until We Kiss Again” encapsulates the poignant yearning for a return to normalcy in a world forever transformed.
Haunted by the echoes of betrayal, “The Tears You Gave Me” lays bare the lasting scars of trust shattered, while “Indelible Mark” delves into the struggle to release the weight of past trauma. “Thief” contemplates the blurred lines between inspiration and appropriation, inviting introspection.
“Victim Blaming” courageously confronts harmful narratives surrounding survivors of abuse, dismantling stereotypes with unflinching truth. “Maiden Name” champions the autonomy of women to define their own identities, challenging traditional conventions.
“Ghost” encapsulates the lingering aftermath of a toxic relationship, exploring the enduring echoes of a love that refused to let go. “Teacher’s Pet” exposes the painful reality of betrayal in a mentorship, unveiling the predatory nature of a once-trusted figure.
Concluding on a note of self-reclamation, “Pieces of Me” demands the return of the fragments of self that were relinquished in the pursuit of another’s healing. “Echoes of Resilience” resonates as a powerful anthem of self-discovery, resilience, and the unyielding human spirit. It invites readers on an emotional odyssey, leaving an indelible mark long after the final verse is read. This collection is an intimate testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit.

Scholar of the Arts and Inhumanities

Rebecca Dietrich’s Scholar of the Arts and Inhumanities is a riveting debut collection that dives deep into the human condition through the lens of personal trauma and resilience. With an unflinching gaze, Dietrich explores themes of love, loss, and reclamation of self, delivering each poem with a potent blend of vulnerability and defiance. This collection is not merely a series of poetic reflections but a call to action, urging readers to confront their sorrows and emerge stronger.

Dietrich’s writing is visceral and raw, often unearthing the darkest corners of human experience. Poems like “Trauma Bond” and “Chokehold” reflect a harrowing struggle with toxic relationships and personal demons. Her use of stark, evocative imagery captures the complex reality of trauma, compelling readers to empathize deeply with her plight. This stark honesty permeates the collection, making it a cathartic read for anyone who has grappled with similar issues. One of the most striking aspects of Dietrich’s work is her ability to transform pain into a powerful narrative of survival and empowerment.

Dietrich’s poems serve as a testament to the strength and resilience required to confront and transcend adversity. Her words are not just poetic but are imbued with a sense of urgency that resonates on a deeply personal level. Dietrich also excels in blending the personal with the political. These poems critique societal norms and injustices, from the desensitization to school shootings to the ongoing struggle for gender equality.

Scholar of the Arts and Inhumanities is a compelling read that I would highly recommend to anyone interested in contemporary poetry that does not shy away from the harsh realities of life. Dietrich’s work is particularly resonant for readers who appreciate poetry that confronts personal and societal traumas with unyielding honesty. Her poetic voice is both haunting and hopeful, making this collection a poignant addition to the world of modern poetry.

Pages: 32 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CP2VNVHX

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