Poems
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![Cover of Issue 01 titled "language" featuring nine multilingual license plates from various U.S. states.]()
two syllables; 237 pages | alternate title: my grandmother and bell hooks shared source material
My first published poem! A dedication to my grandmother. Published in Tabadul’s inaugural issue (Nov ‘23), centered on the theme of Language.
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![An illustration of a body laying down on a marbled background.]()
For Shelley and Stryker, who leapt from the head of Zeus
An ode to the work of Susan Stryker and a meditation on the body, transformation, and what's considered 'natural'.
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![Cover of "Beyond Words Issue #4 February 2024" displaying collage artwork by Okja Kwon featuring abstract plant forms]()
unlearning the logic of grief takes more than 8yrs (this I know)
Reflecting on my attachment to actions as a sense of control in the face of inevitable grief. Published in Issue 44 (Feb ‘24) of Beyond Words Magazine.
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![Cover of Fruitslice featuring a painting of two women sitting next to each other]()
you dance unprompted
What makes us trust strangers enough to embark on a path to friendship? Published in Fruitslice’s second issue (Mar ‘24), centered on Platonic Romance & Chosen Bonds.
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![Cover of '27th Poetry Ink' book featuring calligraphy in red on blue background]()
how striking, the resemblance
The things I didn’t say in that one conversation. Published in the 27th Annual Poetry Ink Anthology (Feb ‘24) by Moonstone Press.
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![The words 'Voicemail Poems' above a picture of a purple flower with a blue background]()
Thriving!
A sensory celebration of life. Published in Voicemail Poems’ Spring 2024 issue (May ‘24). Audio recording available here.
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![Cover of Carolina Muse showing painting of woman laying on ground, facing viewer, with flowers blooming around her]()
until August comes again
The moments in between loss and the arrival of grief. Published in Vol.4 No.2 (May ‘24) of Carolina Muse.
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![A reddish-orange boldface letter "a"]()
Abode Press reading [6/30/24]
To close the Abode Press 2024 Retreat, fellows participated in a reading. I chose to read “They told me God had a plan” & “Lessons on how to be”.
If you don’t say it out loud, no one will know who you are.
Nikky Finney
[Nikky said this at the Griot & Grey Owl conference (Nov ‘23). But honestly, she was dropping so many dimes, she might not even remember this one. It stuck with me though]
Photo by Wilson