I've accepted that I'll never be a poet or a creative artist in the way I once was. I started writing at 14 and used that passion (and the nurturing environment of the Atlanta region) to craft a path to break out of very humble beginnings.
It worked. Not a day goes by where I'm not grateful for the many inflection points that made a difference in my life. Folks generally underestimate the relationship and impact that writers, storytellers, and artists have with people and communities they call home. We tap into something that's not transactional or quantifiable.
My box of memories of poems and speeches for events, funerals, weddings, colleges, and artistic collaborations, and conversations at book signings and readings through the U.S. are some of my life's favorite moments.
The pandemic changed things for me. In addition to losing my closest friend (and fraternity brother) and the emotional toll of our collective shared experiences since 2020, a series of meaningful reconnections sparked a reassessment of the decision to forfeit my creative roots.
While I have no regrets and proud of my career path since, I've written things worth sharing that provide a better sense of who I've become beyond social media and published articles. More importantly, I felt the need to contribute to the catalogue of inspiration during such challenging times.
This need created Folded Whispers, which takes place on Tuesday, August 9th (my 43rd birthday) at the Kelly Strayhorn Theater in Pittsburgh. Kelly Strayhorn was the first place I visited in Pittsburgh that made a misfit like me feel a sense of belonging.
It's such an important institution in America and the right place for the words I'll be sharing. If you're in town, you're welcome to join - RSVP here. If you're not here, stay tuned for the creative way we'll share the performance.
Thank you - Can't wait!
Mark A.