Well, well, well. If it isn’t the most significant month for me: September.
Listen here...I know for damn sure it was May yesterday. No idea how September is here.
Anyway, September has been a significant month at least since 2003. I've faced losses, accomplishments, book releases, and heck, even my spouse and I's anniversary as a couple is in September. Being that poetry is my first love and it's been a decade of being a published poetry author, of course, I'm going to highlight my literary babies' birthdays in September.
Long Live Phoenixes Turns 6
September 9th
What is it About?
Long Live Phoenixes" is a raw, introspective collection that invites readers on a transformative journey of self-discovery. Divided into 9 empowering "Phoenix laws," I weave together the darker threads of my past - molded expectations, and abuse - with the luminous threads of my rebirth: peace, acceptance, love, and my poetry. As I share my story of shedding old identities and embracing authenticity, I hope it ignites the flames of self-love and the courageous pursuit of one's truest desires. Hopefully, encourage young women overcoming adversity and marginalized readers to find their own phoenix within.
Who is This Book For?
Young Adults/New Adults on the Road to Self-Discovery or Re-Discovery:
Long Live Phoenixes touches on personal growth, shedding old identities, and finding one's true self. And, no it isn’t always a pretty process either. From my experience, it’s a messy journey THAT’S WORTH EMBARKING!
Readers going through their journey of self-discovery, whether it's related to sexuality, relationships, or life path, could find solace (hopefully) in my lil’ ol’ poems.
Women Overcoming Adversity:
Long Live Phoenixes bleeds in black ink on difficult topics like familial/ relational abuse (not physical! Graphic violence and physical abuse are not blatantly mentioned in this collection) and the struggle to break free from imposed expectations or limitations.
Women who have experienced similar challenges in their lives may resonate with Long Live Phoenixes. If so, I wish you a triumphant victory.
Reading a few poems from Long Live Phoenixes
Orange September Turns 1
September 12th
What is it About?
During the warm glow of a Brooklyn autumn, I begin to know the electric thrill of new love in this intimate LGBTQ+ poetry collection. In Orange September, I peel open my heart and poetically roll out our passionate, transformative relationship over four years. I wanted to capture the giddy rush of connection, the realistic ups and downs, the comfort of companionship, steamy moments, and the emotional landscapes that emerge from us, me and them. Brimming with sensuality, humor, and hard-won wisdom, "Orange September" is a celebration of queer love's power to uplift, challenge, and change us. I hope that readers surrender to the magic of falling - and staying - in love.
Who is This Book For?
Lesbian/Queer Women Readers:
The specificity of my collection's subject matter - a lesbian/queer couple's relationship from meeting to wedding day - makes it especially relevant and meaningful for lesbian and queer female readers.
Readers Seeking Black LGBTQ+ Representation in Poetry:
Readers who value and seek out Black LGBTQ+-affirming literature, particularly in poetry.
Readers Interested in Relationship Journeys:
Orange September reveals the stages of a relationship, from the first marriage meeting, which would resonate with readers interested in intimate, realistic portrayals of romantic partnerships and the experiences that shape them.
Readers Who Like my SH!#
Readers who are already supporters and enjoy my poetic voice and style, or who have read and enjoyed my previous work, should give this a go!
My Quintessence Turns 10
September 18th
What Is It About?
For my first collection, I was trying to take my readers, into the very depths of my soul! Lol.. Through these intimate short/long pieces, I bare my whole heart, from the giddy highs of young love to the lows of personal pain. Whether I'm getting silly with my friends or exploring my faith, my raw, honest voice will make you feel like we're old confidants. Although I have de-converted and my views have changed immensely on a plethora of topics in this collection, I'm still proud of it. I recently had a conversation with a dope person about how a lot of poems from My Quintessence make me metaphorically bury my face in the sand. However, at one point it was my quintessence. This was my lens at the time. Growth. Change. I'm okay with showing my growth. Still makes me cringe though.
Who Is This Book For?
Christian/Faith-Based Readers:
The primary audience would be readers within the Christian faith or those drawn to spiritually-themed poetry. My collection's exploration of faith, identity, and life experiences would resonate strongly with this demographic.
Those Interested in my Past Life:
If you’re curious to know what 18-23-year-old Jazzy was like, read my debut collection and see the evolution of my craft.