Last week I led a workshop/retreat called WILD SEEDS under the auspices of the Center For Black Literature at Medgar Evers College, and under the direction of Dr. Brenda Greene. Here’s a screenshot of my group. We quickly established a rapport.
We spent four days with our minds on fiction writing. We talked about the ways our lived experience as African Americans informs our work and how it is perceived. We explored ways that our “made-up” stories can carry the essential truths of our lives. We discussed ways that we can embed historical facts in our fiction as a way to educate our readers about history. The memoir cohort was led by Bridgett Davis.
I speak with Dr. Greene about my work in this video:
I also note the passing and celebrate the life of Maria Chisolm (1961 - 2024), a poet and beloved relative. She is the author of two poetry collections, Burnt Orange and Sudan’s Angels. She was a member of Women Writers in Bloom Salon. She was cherished for her vibrant energy. She is gone, but is not forgotten. Learn more about her work here: Maria Chisolm poetry
For more information about The Center For Black Literature and their 2024 National Black Writers Conference, go to NBWC