INTERVIEWED BY DHAYANA ALEJANDRINA
Welcome, Noire Family,
In this interview, I had the pleasure to sit down with the talented and amazing writer and mental health advocate, Kris Crews, 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 Kris Crews to another episode of Noire Poetry Series!
Can you share a bit about your background and what initially inspired you to pursue writing/poetry?
Writing became my initial form of therapy during my high school years. Struggling to express my feelings and cope with stress, I turned to pen and paper as a means of solace. Each time I wrote, a sense of freedom enveloped me, and the chaos of life began to unravel into clarity. Journaling became my compass, guiding me to forge deeper connections with myself and others. It’s through writing that I feel most connected to my true self. With a pen in hand and paper before me, I tap into vulnerability, authenticity, and raw emotion, allowing me to navigate the depths of my innermost thoughts and feelings.
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?
As a Black woman, I’ve discovered that much of my writing revolves around themes of mental health and self-preservation. The world often demands an extraordinary amount from Black women, creating a landscape that can feel overwhelming to navigate. Dealing with imposter syndrome, the pressure to fulfill endless expectations, and the mandate to remain perpetually strong can be particularly daunting. There’s a pervasive fear that we aren’t deserving of more.
Despite encountering these harsh realities, I’ve found that they’ve propelled me toward greater bravery and intentionality in believing in myself. Each obstacle I’ve faced has taught me invaluable lessons: that I am capable, intelligent, and that strength doesn’t always mean shouldering burdens alone, but rather striving to do my best in every circumstance.
These realizations have empowered me to uplift others, encouraging them not to confine themselves within predetermined boundaries. Instead, I advocate for creating space, whether it’s at the table or within society, when it isn’t readily available. It’s through this journey of self-discovery and advocacy that I’ve found my voice, and I’m committed to amplifying the voices of others who may feel marginalized or unheard.
How would you describe your creative process? Do you have any specific rituals or routines that help you get into the writing mindset?
I make a personal commitment to write at least three times a week for a minimum of 30 minutes, allowing for more if the creative energy is flowing. Before diving into my writing sessions, I take a moment to meditate and set clear intentions for what I hope to achieve. Occasionally, I’ll complement this practice by playing soothing music in the background to further center my focus.
This dedicated time serves as a sanctuary for me, a space where I can effectively tune out external distractions and immerse myself fully in the act of writing. Whether the output is substantial or not, I embrace each session as a victory. This mindset encourages me to persist in my writing endeavors, knowing that every effort contributes to my growth as a writer.
Who are your literary or poetic influences, and how have they shaped your work?
Alex Elle, Rob Hill Sr, Toni Morrison, Chidera Eggerue, and Diego Perez have all taught me to confront my fears and embrace new perspectives. Their wisdom encourages me to face challenges head-on, allowing me to feel more and fear less about the outcomes, and to simply start.
What challenges do you face as a writer/poet, and how do you overcome them?
Writer’s block, a common obstacle creatives encounter, has often hindered my progress. In the past, I found myself paralyzed by self-doubt or the mistaken belief that my initial writing must be flawless. However, I’ve adopted a new approach: I now view writing as a tool to capture my emotions and thoughts in the moment. Rather than striving for perfection from the start, I allow myself to freely express myself, knowing that I can revisit and refine my work later with a fresh perspective and a meticulous eye.
Could you share one of your favorite pieces or an excerpt from a project that holds personal significance? What does it mean to you?
One of my favorite pieces I’ve written comes from my first book, “You Owe it To Yourself.” It reads, “Silly of me to be afraid of how it may end when I haven’t even started.” It’s a reminder to never sell myself short and to pursue something even if I’m unsure of the outcome. There’s so much for me to experience and embrace, and I don’t want to hinder myself from experiencing it because of what I think may or may not happen.
What advice would you offer to aspiring writers or poets aiming to leave their imprint on the literary world?
To go for it and allow yourself to be seen! Share your work because you never know where it can take you. There are various metrics we consider when it comes to defining success—like how many people like your work or how much you’re getting paid for it. While these metrics hold importance, especially for financial sustainability, it’s equally crucial to release work that resonates with you and brings you fulfillment. Even if your work doesn’t receive a large audience, it doesn’t diminish its value. Sometimes, our writing serves as a form of self-expression, evolving into a means to connect with others.
Can you share details about your ongoing writing projects? What themes or ideas are you currently exploring?
I am currently working on my second book. I don’t want to give too much away, but it does focus on the theme of rebirth, growth, and blooming.
How do you perceive the role of writers and poets in today’s society?
Changemakers and connectors, we hold a wealth of insights that can unite people. Words possess a remarkable power, often underestimated, yet capable of profoundly transforming lives for the better.
Give yourself flowers, what is something you feel proud of when you think about your creative gift?
How I’ve managed to inspire others and become a source of brightness in their lives. That’s always been my goal, honestly. I feel the most proud when someone tells me that my words have helped them navigate tough times. It reaffirms that this is what I’m meant to be doing.
About Kris Crews
Originally from Columbus, OH, and now residing in Los Angeles, Kris Crews is a writer and mental health advocate. In 2021, she released her first book titled You Owe it To Yourself, a compelling call to embrace self-improvement and mental wellness.
Her contributions have garnered attention from platforms such as MTV, Huffington Post, and Black Excellence, where Kris’s voice on mental wellness and personal growth has resonated with wide audiences. Beyond her professional achievements, Kris embodies the spirit of connection through writing, continually seeking to inspire and empower individuals with her words.
Currently, Kris is channeling her passion into a second book, signaling an ongoing commitment to explore and advocate for mental health and self-care. She hopes that through her work, she can be a vessel of hope and remind people to make daily improvements toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Thanks for exploring our third interview in the Noire Poetry Series with Kris Crews.
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