Interview: Poet Monique Jackson

Poet/Writer Monique Jackson recently spoke to BWW about Buffalo, New York's poetry scene.

MCL: Do you write prose or just poetry?

MJ: I pretty much stick to just poetry but who knows what's later? I try not to keep myself in a box.

MCL: Do you write every day? What is your writing process like?

MJ: I don't write every day. If its something I'm going through I write or if im in a writing mood I write. It just all depends on how i'm feeling.

MCL: How did you get into poetry?

MJ: I remember always watching the slams shows that use to come on tv and I always read so many different books from poetry to suspense and it always interest me .

MCL: Some poetry influences?

MJ: Maya Angelou, Edgar Allan Poe, Langston Hughes, Nikki Giovanni, the last poets. The list goes on.

MCL: Describe your poetry?

MJ: My poetry is what I see around me: The youth, drugs, crime politics, sex, love and just life.

MCL: What's the Buffalo, New York poetry and writing scene like?

MJ: So many talented people my goodness. Rare talent and also raw talent. I have met some great people at different events around the Buffalo area. Very welcoming people if you have never gone to one I suggest you get to one soon.

MCL: Any local poets who helped you grow?

MJ: Of course. Some have been very helpful and warm hearted. I couldn't ask for anything more.

MCL: Some of your favorite venues and why?

MJ: Gypsy Lounge and your venue are two of my favorite because again you're seeing raw talent. A variety of different talent and it's always that laid back atmosphere with great crowds

MCL: If you could go back in time and be a poet when would it be and why?

MJ: Maya Angelou because through her words and eyes she's seen much and learned through her travels and teaching.

MCL: Finally, promote yourself. What's going on in 2015 and 2016 for you?

MJ: Right now I'm still working on poetry which will always be my first love. I started something new which is screen plays. It's always nice to try something new and get out of the box. I want to continue to grow and learn more in my writing's, and also meet more great people along the way.