INTERVIEWED BY DHAYANA ALEJANDRINA
Welcome, Noire Family,
In this interview, I had the pleasure to sit down with the talented and amazing writer, Nicolette Alexandra Brito-Cruz, as she offers a captivating glimpse into her inspirational journey, delving into her roots, the reasons driving her creative endeavors, exciting future projects, and more.
Please join me in welcoming Nicolette Alexandra Brito-Cruz to Afrique Noire Magazine!
Can you share a bit about your background and what initially inspired you to pursue writing/poetry?
My name is Nicolette Alexandra Brito-Cruz. I am a first-generation, fourth-year undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism & Media with a specialization in Global Media. Additionally, I am working towards a Bachelor of Arts in Italian Studies with a minor in Women and Gender Studies. As a first-generation Dominican-American, my inspiration to pursue writing and poetry originates from my unwavering passion for exploring issues of decolonization, race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, and abolition. I consistently find that a significant portion of my poetry and visual art relates back to the exploration of my diverse identities.
How does your identity, including cultural background, influence your writing and the themes you explore? In what ways do you navigate the intersection of your personal identity and the broader cultural context in your work?
My work is deeply influenced by my Afro-Dominican-American cultural background, particularly in the context of my current residence in Rome, Italy, where Caribbean culture is notably absent. Afro-Caribbean culture and spirituality serve as significant wellsprings of inspiration for me. I navigate the confluence of personal identity and a broader cultural milieu by intricately incorporating these elements into my narratives, celebrating both the beauties and misfortunes of various cultures.
Through my poetry and photography, I delve into the multifaceted layers of being Afro-Latinx. Additionally, I leverage my digital presence and privilege to spotlight and uplift communities that have played pivotal roles in the pursuit of Black Liberation, such as Haiti, as well as various cultural groups grappling for liberation, including Palestine and Bedouins/Bedoons in the SWANA region, among others. I firmly believe in the importance of utilizing one’s privilege, regardless of its extent, to advocate for the liberation of all people.
How would you describe your creative process? Do you have any specific rituals or routines that help you get into the writing mindset?
My creative process is fluid. Although I don’t adhere to strict rituals, I believe in advancing my ideas, even in uncertainty. This approach frequently results in unexpected and aesthetically pleasing forms in my work. Inspiration is drawn from various sources, particularly when exploring diverse cultural backgrounds and delving into the historical contexts of traditions and practices.
Who are your literary or poetic influences, and how have they shaped your work?
I draw inspiration from a diverse range of literary and poetic influences, with a particular emphasis on Black and Arabic literature. Mahmoud Darwish stands out as one of my favorite poets due to his profound connection of all his works to his culture and religion.
What challenges do you face as a writer/poet, and how do you overcome them?
One challenge involves questioning my work and ideas. I overcome this obstacle by embracing uncertainty and forging ahead with my creative instincts. More often than not, my ideas evolve into something unexpected and beautiful.
How would you characterize your writing style or poetic voice? Are there specific elements or techniques you consciously incorporate into your work?
My writing style can be characterized by thought-provoking narratives, primarily centered around spirituality. Even poems that do not directly address social justice still connect to spiritualism and Afro-Caribbean religion in unconventional ways.
How do you envision your work resonating with readers? Is there a specific message or emotion you aim to convey?
I aspire for my work to resonate by cultivating a sense of community and belonging, especially for those contending with societal injustices. My objective is to dismantle barriers and establish spaces where diverse voices are not only embraced but also celebrated.
Could you share one of your favorite pieces or an excerpt from a project that holds personal significance? What does it mean to you?
My poem “Old Enough to Understand” was published in the 5th issue of Rejected Lit and Heirloom of Shame is one of my recent poems.
Heirloom of Shame
My genitalia is not a symbol of life. I refuse to use it to birth the next generation of unprepared, culturally dissociated servants to a society that loathes them. I will not give in to the fear that by not doing so, I will be shamed in accordance with the traditions of “my” culture. Creating, growing, and nourishing a child from my own stomach and breasts is a privilege that has become an unwritten law established by the hierarchy of the patriarch. The process of childbirth is a phenomenon that the male body was not created to handle, and yet they have somehow found a way to infest it with poisons and lies dating back to 1492 when La Hispanola’s first invader sailed the ocean blue.
My Dominican mother’s mind is unconsciously rooted in the deepest seed sowed during this time. She tells me I’m selfish for condemning her prayers about my “future children” and that this was what I was created for, to create. Little does she know that because of people like me, she has the right to vote. Because of people like me, she has the choice to remain single and not be forced into marriage. Because of people like me, the world is waking up and correcting its mistakes because we refuse to take their shit. My “learned selfishness” is the reason I’m not afraid to snatch back what is mine and, on the contrary, do so with pride. Regardless of whether or not I have to shout at the top of my lungs to be heard by a crowd of minuscule cis-gender, straight, elderly, white men or march until my feet can no longer carry my fighting body, this poem is my oath to never back down or surrender to the malice voices of misogyny.
And if I make the decision to have a child, she, he, ze, xe, or they will not inherit this second-hand shame. They will not be taught to believe that they must bear children before it’s “too late”. They will not be shamed for exercising their g-d given right to choose who they want to be. They’ll know that we won’t think differently of them, and if by some chance my time comes and I must go, they will carry this legacy with every march that they can bear. We no longer solely blame the ideologies of misogyny; This is political warfare.
What advice would you offer to aspiring writers or poets aiming to leave their imprint on the literary world?
I encourage aspiring writers and poets to embrace their unique voices, draw inspiration from personal experiences, and wield art as a potent tool for advocacy and change. Forge connections with communities that resonate with your work, and fearlessly challenge systems of power.
Can you share details about your ongoing writing projects? What themes or ideas are you currently exploring?
I am in the process of compiling a collection of my poems centered around social advocacy. Concurrently, I am actively pursuing fellowships and participating in various programs. My goal is to secure acceptance into a program that facilitates collaborative learning within a small cohort, allowing for the exchange of ideas and experiences.
On the photography front, I am collaborating with AFRIQUE NOIRE MAGAZINE to finalize ‘Letters of the Unheard.’ This project involves crafting a series of letters, poems, and accompanying photographs highlighting individuals of color who have triumphed over identity-related challenges.
How do you perceive the role of writers and poets in today’s society?
I perceive the role of writers and poets in today’s society as that of storytellers and educators. By engaging with various poets online, particularly in recent times, I have gained insights into the lives and experiences of individuals living halfway across the world from me. It’s as if I can feel every ounce of joy and pain they experience, inspiring me to delve deeper into the global conflicts that impact them negatively, as well as the beautiful traditions they choose to share through their writing.
Give yourself flowers, what is something you feel proud of when you think about your creative gift?
Something I feel proud of when thinking about my creative gifts is my ability to always add more. When I write, even after I’ve posted the poem or the photo, I am always drawn back to my work, and I’m constantly improving them, even if it’s for myself. I like being able to change, adapt, and create entirely new works of art based on what I learn every day.
Thanks for exploring our first interview in the Noire Poetry Series with Nicolette Alexandra Brito-Cruz.
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You can also follow –
Our lead poetry and culture collaborator, Dhayana on Instagram
Our Guest – Nicolette here on Instagram also her Poetry Instagram account here
