Cheli Interview | Respect The Poet
How did you get your name?
It’s been my nickname since I was little :)
What Kind of Poet are you?
I’m a poet who expresses their deepest emotions, inspires others, and gives permission for others to be vulnerable as well.
What drew you to Poetry/writing?
I first began journaling at the age of 7 when I was gifted a journal a little before my 8th birthday. I found the exercise of writing enjoyable and a fun way to express myself. I took to writing because it was a safe place to express my most inner thoughts. I ventured into poetry as a pre-teen and then as a teenager when I wanted another form of writing and expressing myself. At that time, many poems centered around romance or heartbreak.
Where are you from?
I was born in NYC and grew up in Rockland County, NY which is where I currently reside.
Where do you go to create?
Tell us about one of your favorite creative environments
I can write almost anywhere- my bed, my living room, at work, etc.
What inspires you?
I’m inspired by my emotions, music, people, creatives, art, and nature.
Who inspires you?
I’m inspired by creatives and people I am close to.
Who are some of your favorite poets?
Pedro Pietri
Kwame Alexander
Which Poems inspire you? Why?
“Stretched” by Gessie Nash
Poems by Carla M. Cherry, Cassandra Alfred, and Taneeka Wilder
If you could work with anyone in the world (alive or dead) who would it be?
Michelle Obama or Jay-Z
What’s a piece of advice you have for anyone trying to delve more into poetry?
Trust yourself.
Read more than you write.
Have no limitations when you do write. (You can always go back to edit.)
What advice do you have for poets to keep their audience engaged?
Post frequently-your poems, books, etc.
Post other things as well- you are a person first. That’s what drives the poetry.
What's your dream?
My dream is to inspire people to be their authentic selves.
What advice do you have for anyone chasing their dreams?
Set your goals high. Write them down. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Don’t be afraid to ask someone different if you are not getting the help you deserve.
What is your poetic legacy/ life legacy you are trying to create?
This world will be a better place when we all tap into our intuition and be we who truly are.
What is the best advice you would give someone with a dream?
To never give up.
Tell us about your most recent release
Awesome
My most recent book, “Lost & Found” tells a journey of me finding myself again after being lost from heartbreaks, insecurities, and self-doubt. It reads from my page to page, poem to poem, and I assure that it will not disappoint. Link is in my IG bio! @Chelijelly89
I am also facilitating a virtual series of events titled: “Poetry &” series. We combine poetry, writing prompts and an activity altogether. The next one is 9/21/21 at 7pm: Poetry & Gardening. We will actually plant a succulent, learn about gardening and reflect on ourselves and future goals. The following one is 10/5/21 at 7pm: Poetry & Music. We will listen to piano, rap, and poetry. We will also have an opportunity to write a song or poem that goes with music! They will run throughout the fall on a biweekly basis on Tuesdays at 7pm. For anyone who attends 3 or more will be drawn in a giveaway on 12/14/21on my IG live!
Share one of your most recent poems and the inspiration behind it
I’m still trying to find my purpose Poem. The inspiration was based on a writing prompt with Rockland Poets.
Check out Cheli at
Instagram: http://Www.Instagram.com/chelijelly89
Facebook.com: http://Www.facebook.com/Michel.Antoine.7505
Website: http://Www.MichelTherapy.com
Photography credit: Femi Photos
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