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5 Minutes, 5 Questions With… Troy aka P.O.E.T., author of My Pen Writes for Me

JoeyPinkney.com Exclusive Interview
5 Minutes, 5 Questions With…
Troy aka P.O.E.T, author of My Pen Writes for Me
(LuLu)

“We need to show people that revolution is not about color, It’s about regrouping our liberated people.”

Inspired by the creative souls of Maya Angelou and Saul Williams, Troy aka P.O.E.T was a survivor of the streets and looked to poetry as his refuge. Having performed in various venues across New Jersey and in the Triangle for the last eight years, the Silent Myndz Entertainment founder and owner has become a must-hear performer. He has really transformed a city to see his vision.

Joey Pinkney: Where did you get the idea and inspiration to write My Pen Writes for Me?

Troy aka P.O.E.T: The People. The People always give me inspiration. They have always told me to writes down my words, and my words would become me. I have laid my words down, and now I have a book waiting to be read.

JP: Many times, people are prone to shy away from poetry that is labeled “revolutionary” and “controversial”. What has been your experience with the response to what you express through your poetic musings?

P.O.E.T.: When I am performing or I am speaking to other poets or just in general, I do encounter a lot of funny looks or comments like,”Were not in the 60’s. Give it up.” Now these are the people who really get me going for my next poem or writings. I just want to say, “Thank you.”

JP: As an author, what are the keys to your success that lead to My Pen Writes for Me getting out to the public?

P.O.E.T.: Well, I have to push and market as hard as I can. Facebook, Myspace, Tagged, Lulu, and different outlets, especially at my shows. I really have to push because the average reader will not buy your book unless it’s from Barnes & Nobles or being a top bookseller. You know I can’t forget also through you, Joey.

JP: As an poet, who as been your influence? What poem or poet sparked your drive to put your words together the way you do?

P.O.E.T.: I was writing off and on in high school until right after 9/11 in NYC. One of my favorite poets, Amiri Baraka, wrote a poem “Somebody Blew Up America”. I was moved by his poem and hurt because people jump on him for writing truth. I want to continue that same response. Just because we are modern day doesn’t mean the struggle doesn’t exist.

JP: What’s next for Troy H. Lewis?

P.O.E.T.: I recently put on The 1st National Purple Carpet Poetry Awards in August 2010. Thanks for the interview.

http://www.silentmyndz.vpweb.com
http://www.myspace.com/castortroyxr3
http://www.facebook.com/troypoetlewis

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