Not withstanding

Abstract

Throughout my writing life, I have been consistently drawn to the small and minute moments. An off-hand comment from a lover, a drive to a soccer game, the thoughts in my head while looking at a painting, the way someone walks, all of these things have combined to influence my worldview. When I sit down to write, I can’t help but put these tiny things on the page, blowing them up into monumental pieces of art that demand to be acknowledged. Of course, there is always the need to bring the big conversations to the table. Religion, sexual assault, the foster system—these things need to be talked about. They need to be accessible. As a poet, I know it is my responsibility to shed light on these difficult topics, and despite the embarrassment and no matter how uncomfortable I might be to admit some of these truths, I know with my vulnerability I have created beautiful art out of some brutal situations. This chapbook, Not Withstanding, is an examination of those small, seemingly inconsequential experiences contrasted against the intensity of the more traumatic experiences that have made a strong impact on my young womanhood. Keywords: English, Creative Writing, Poetry, Chapbook, Womanhood, Religion, Sexuality, Family Dynamics