Kammy Writes is a powerful voice in the world of poetry. Known for her evocative writing and insightful reflections on self-discovery and emotional well-being, Kammy uses her art to inspire and connect with readers. In this interview, we delve into her creative process, influences, and the messages she aims to convey through her work. Join us as we explore the journey and perspectives of this influential poetess.
Pachagazine: Who is Kammy Writes?
Kammy Writes: Kammy Writes is a 24-year-old lady, the firstborn in a family of three kids. She is a mom as well as a graduate with a diploma in Analytical Chemistry.
Pachagazine: Can you share the moment or experience that inspired you to start writing poetry?
Kammy Writes: I’m a lover of the arts. In high school, I used to recite shairi (poems in Swahili) for the music festivals. This gave me an opening to venture into poetry.
Pachagazine: Who are some of the poets or writers who have influenced your work the most?
Kammy Writes: Mustafa the Poet, Laki Owende (the Neeve), and Wanda have been significant influences.
Pachagazine: How do you find inspiration for your poems? Do you have any specific routines?
Kammy Writes: I find inspiration by reading other poets’ works, observing art and pictures, connecting with nature, and reflecting on real-life issues.
Pachagazine: Can you describe your creative process when writing a poem?
Kammy Writes: First, I decide on a topic, research it, explore the right words to use, write the poem down, and then re-read it while editing where necessary.
Pachagazine: What themes or messages do you aim to convey through your poetry?
Kammy Writes: My poems revolve around love, betrayal, death, and peace.
Pachagazine: How has your poetry evolved over time, and what have been some key milestones in your journey?
Kammy Writes: My poetry has evolved significantly in language, structure, and emotional evocation. A key milestone has been participating in and compiling anthologies internationally.
Pachagazine: What challenges have you faced as a poetess, and how have you overcome them?
Kammy Writes: Coming up with titles and finding the right words to express ideas have been challenges. I overcome them by doing thorough research on the topics.
Pachagazine: How do you handle writer’s block or moments of creative stagnation?
Kammy Writes: I believe in the words “I can still do it.” In such situations, I use that mantra and sometimes take a break from writing, which helps me regain my creativity.
Pachagazine: Can you share a poem that holds special significance for you and explain why?
Kammy Writes:
DREAMER
I am a dreamer,
Not any other kind of dreamer,
But the kind of dreamer that dreams of a better ‘morrow.
Might be shaggy today,
Might be living in a dilapidated environment,
Maybe a dysfunctional family—
That does not stop me from being a dreamer.
They say I am dreaming too big,
That it’s all but just a dream.
Still, I am a dreamer.
I know the future is radiating.
I shall wear a smile,
Stand with confidence,
Look at dear self in the mirror,
And say,
Thank you for giving up not;
Your dreams have come true.
I am a dreamer,
The reflection you see,
Is what I dream of,
Is what I pray to come true,
To show the world that
Dreams can be, as long as you believe they can.
© Mukami Kinyua
16th April 2024
This poem holds significance because it reminds me to keep going and work smart, for every dream is worth pursuing and shall come to be, no matter the time and effort required.
Pachagazine: How do you balance personal expression with connecting to your audience in your poetry?
Kammy Writes: I consider the emotional response I want to evoke in my audience and use language effectively to achieve that connection.
Pachagazine: What role does mental health and self-care play in your writing?
Kammy Writes: Mental health affects how one thinks, feels, and acts. Having a stable mental state and practicing self-care is important as it helps maintain focus and provides deeper insights into thoughts and feelings, which are reflected in my poems.
Pachagazine: How has your poetry impacted your personal growth and understanding of yourself?
Kammy Writes: Poetry has built my capacity for complex understanding, influenced my decision-making capabilities, and helped me manage my emotions.
Pachagazine: What has been the most rewarding aspect of sharing your poetry with the world?
Kammy Writes: The most rewarding aspect is connecting with people who share similar sentiments and spreading love and hope through my work.
Pachagazine: How do you use social media and online platforms to reach and engage with your readers?
Kammy Writes: I try to post poems regularly and am working on creating reels to reach a larger audience.
Pachagazine: Can you share an experience where a reader’s feedback profoundly affected you?
Kammy Writes: There was a time I posted a poem, and a reader felt as though I had written directly about them. There was a bit of commotion about it, and it made me feel like not writing anymore.
Pachagazine: How do you see the role of poetry in today’s world, especially in terms of social and emotional issues?
Kammy Writes: Poetry is therapeutic. It provides individuals with ways to deal with challenges and helps them express their feelings.
Pachagazine: Are there any upcoming projects or collections that you’re excited about and can share with us?
Kammy Writes: I am extremely excited to be releasing my first poetry collection, Craving Crown, published by Global Visionary Pen Legacy. I believe this is just the beginning of many other projects I’m working on.
Pachagazine: What legacy do you hope to leave through your poetry, and how do you want to be remembered as a poetess?
Kammy Writes: I wish to be remembered as someone whose work brought about hope, peace, and love, and also through the publication of my works.
Pachagazine: What advice would you give to aspiring poets who are just starting their journey?
Kammy Writes: My advice would be never to give up, no matter what. The journey isn’t a bed of roses, but you can do it. Keep writing, and soon you will get to where you aspire to be. Accept critics, whether positive or negative, for they are your ladder to becoming better.
Pachagazine: Thank you for letting us get to know about you, Kammy
Kammy Writes: Thank you for having me.
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