Please welcome Yewande Akinse to my blog. Hello Yewande. Shall we get started?

Please introduce yourself to those reading this blog post.

I am a Poet and Author of three collections of poems titled, “The rise and fall of rhymes and rhythms” (2025), “A tale of being, of green and of ing” (2019) and Voices: A collection of poems that tell stories (2016). My poems have been featured in Clay Literary, Trampset, Galleyway, and Afritondo.

Has writing always been part of your life and when did you “know” that it was time to start writing your first book?

Writing has always been an essential part of my life, serving as a creative outlet and a means of exploring my thoughts and emotions. From an early age, I found solace in the written word, captivated by the power of poetry to convey complex feelings and narratives.

The moment I “knew” it was time to start writing my first book came after years of honing my craft and sharing my poetry in various forums. In 2016, I published Voices: A Collection of Poems that Tell Stories, which felt like a natural progression in my journey as a writer. This collection allowed me to weave together the diverse experiences and voices I had encountered, and it solidified my commitment to storytelling through poetry. It was a pivotal moment that affirmed my passion for writing and my desire to connect with readers on a deeper level.

How difficult was it writing your first book?

Writing my first book was an arduous yet transformative journey that unfolded over five years, during which I navigated the demanding landscape of pursuing my first degree in law. The duality of these pursuits often felt like a delicate balancing act, as the rigors of legal studies frequently encroached upon my creative time.

There were moments of profound frustration, where the weight of academic obligations threatened to stifle my artistic voice. Yet, within this struggle lay a fertile ground for inspiration. The complexities of law, its nuances, its moral dilemmas, infused my poetry with depth and urgency, allowing me to explore themes of justice, identity, and the human experience in ways I had not anticipated.

Ultimately, the process taught me invaluable lessons about resilience and the necessity of patience. Each poem became a testament to my commitment, a reflection of the interplay between my scholarly pursuits and my passion for storytelling.

Have you ever wanted to give up and what stopped you?

There have been moments in my journey when the weight of doubt and the relentless pursuit of perfection threatened to overshadow my passion for writing. The desire to give up has whispered in my ear, particularly during periods of creative stagnation or when faced with the harsh realities of rejection. Yet, it is precisely in those moments of vulnerability that I found my resolve.

What stopped me from surrendering to despair was the profound understanding that poetry is not merely a personal endeavor; it is a vital act of connection and resistance. The stories I sought to tell, the voices I aimed to amplify, and the truths I wished to explore compelled me to persist. I drew strength from the rich tapestry of literary ancestors who faced their own struggles, reminding me that the act of creation is often fraught with challenges.

It was the unwavering belief in the transformative power of words that anchored me. I realized that my voice, however imperfect, held the potential to resonate with others, to inspire reflection, and to foster empathy. This realization became my guiding light, illuminating the path forward and urging me to continue writing, even when the journey felt insurmountable. In the end, it is the act of creation itself that sustains me, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of art.

Who is the most supportive of you and your dream to be a writer?

The most supportive individuals in my journey as a writer are undoubtedly the readers who engage with my work by purchasing my books. Their belief in my craft and willingness to invest in my stories validate the countless hours of dedication and passion I pour into my writing. Each purchase represents not just a transaction, but a connection, a shared experience that transcends the page.

Additionally, I am profoundly grateful for the encouragement of my family and friends, who have stood by me through the ups and downs of the creative process. Their unwavering support, whether through thoughtful conversations, constructive feedback, or simply being there to celebrate milestones, has been invaluable.

It is this community of readers and supporters that fuels my ambition and inspires me to continue exploring the depths of human experience through my writing. Their enthusiasm and engagement remind me of the profound impact literature can have, and it is this connection that drives me to create with authenticity and purpose.

Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

To my cherished readers, I extend my deepest gratitude for your presence in this journey of words and wonder. Your willingness to embrace the stories I weave breathes life into my poetry, transforming ink on a page into shared experience. Each poem is a thread connecting us, a reflection of our collective hopes, dreams, and struggles.

I urge you to find your own voice amidst the verses, to explore the beauty and complexity of your narratives. Your stories matter, and they deserve to be told. Thank you for walking this path with me, for your support, and for the light you bring to my work. Together, let us continue to celebrate the power of language and the magic of connection.

What is the best advice given to you (book or otherwise), and by whom?

The best advice I received came from the esteemed poet Maya Angelou, who once said, “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” This profound insight resonated deeply with me, reinforcing the importance of embracing my voice and sharing my experiences through writing.

It encouraged me to confront my fears and insecurities, reminding me that storytelling is not just a personal endeavor but a vital act of connection and healing. This advice has guided me throughout my journey as a writer, inspiring me to delve into the depths of my creativity and to honor the stories that yearn to be expressed. It serves as a constant reminder that our narratives hold power, and it is our responsibility to bring them to light.

What is your target audience and what aspect of your writing do you feel targets that audience?

My target audience primarily includes young readers, parents, educators, and individuals interested in themes of identity, belonging, legacy, resilience, and cultural heritage. With my poetry collection “The Rise and Fall of Rhymes and Rhythms”, I specifically aim to engage children, using accessible language and relatable life lessons to foster a love for reading and learning.

The aspect of my writing that resonates most with this audience is the incorporation of universal themes presented through imaginative storytelling and rhythmic verse. By addressing topics such as kindness, self-discovery, and the beauty of diversity, I strive to create a space where young readers can see themselves reflected in the narratives. Additionally, the playful yet profound nature of my poems invites both children and adults to engage in meaningful conversations about life’s complexities, making the work relevant and impactful across generations.

Did the cover evolve the same way, or did you work with someone to make it come together for you?

The cover of my book evolved through a collaborative process with a talented designer who understood my vision and the essence of the collection. While I had initial ideas about the imagery and themes I wanted to convey, working with someone else allowed for a fresh perspective and creative input that enriched the final design.

Together, we explored various concepts, colors, and visual elements that would resonate with the target audience and reflect the themes of “The Rise and Fall of Rhymes and Rhythms”. This partnership was invaluable, as it combined my poetic vision with their artistic expertise, resulting in a cover that not only captures the spirit of the collection but also invites readers into the world I’ve created. The collaborative effort ultimately made the cover a true representation of the work, enhancing its appeal and impact.

What are you working on now? Can we get a peek, an excerpt?

Currently, I am focused on promoting my recently released collection, “The Rise and Fall of Rhymes and Rhythms”. This work, which consists of 100 poems designed to impart valuable life lessons to children, is a heartfelt endeavor that I am excited to share with readers.

As part of my promotional efforts, I am engaging in readings, workshops, and discussions to connect with audiences and educators, fostering dialogue around the themes of the collection.

Here’s a peek at one of the poems from the collection, titled “Dreams”:

Dreams

Dearest, may you never give up on dreams, 

The far future you envision is real, 

Requiring sacrifice, strict routines, 

In spite of the intense pressure you feel. 

Never give in to the pain, I appeal; 

Following dreams may be lonely and hard, 

But is the most rewarding cause and yard. 

The path of dreams will yield fullness of life; 

As you journey, let hope be your heart’s guard. 

Let these dreams be your rhythm and your fife. 

This poem encapsulates the essence of perseverance and hope, encouraging young readers to pursue their aspirations despite challenges. I look forward to sharing more of these poems and their messages as I promote this collection!

Any last words before we wrap things up?

As we conclude this conversation, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to share my journey and insights with you. Writing is a profound act of connection, and I believe that stories have the power to transcend boundaries, foster empathy, and inspire change.

I encourage all readers and aspiring writers to embrace their unique voices and to approach their craft with courage and authenticity. Every story matters, and the world is richer for the diverse narratives we share. Let us continue to celebrate the beauty of language and the transformative power of art. Thank you for your interest in my work, and I look forward to the conversations and connections that lie ahead.

Website: https://yewande.me/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADwande

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ADwande

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/186504000-yewande-akinse