Valerie Yvette Peterson Interview | Author, Playwright, Director and Poet
We sat down with Author, Playwright, Director and Poet Valerie Yvette Peterson.
Where are you from?: Born, raised and still reside in Portland, Oregon
Tell us the story of how you got into writing: I am a Playwright, Director and Poet. I have always had a love for writing, ever since I was a little girl. When I was practically "forced" (as I felt) to memorize 10-12 paragraph Easter and Christmas speeches for our seasonal programs at church, I began to love the art of story telling. Over the years, I would write plays during lunch time in elementary school and "beg" my friends to play and act out the parts; to which they agreed (smile). As I began High School, I found myself not only writing, but honing my skills as a true thespian and engaging in virtually any play that was put on as a school production. By the time I was a senior in high school, I had written countless skits, short stories and songs. During the summer of my senior year, I began writing my 1st short story, that ultimately, became my first published story titled: I Found Comfort In The Storm".. .Although this book was self-published on little to no budget and was not my best quality of work, I must say, it was a learning experience to which I have no regrets; and I can always say I completed my first published book at the age of 19. Fast forward 30 years, I have written and had self-published, 2 short stories, a compilation of poems, have written and directed over 20 monologues/ plays and skits and have been acting and performing on stage as an actress, which is my first love.
What was your favorite book growing up?: My favorite book growing up was ARE YOU THERE GOD, IT'S ME, MARGARET, By Judy Blume
This was one of the very first books I read with a leading young black girl character in the story.
What is your favorite book as an adult?: I had a hard time picking a favorite book. But as I think about where my passions lie and what has moved me to emotions, I think of the book, I KNOW WHY THE CAGED BIRD SINGS, By Maya Angelou.
What is the name of your new book?: My latest collection of Poetry and Prose is titled, Fruits of Our Labor, My Words, My Harvest; a Compilation of Poetry and Prose. My collection of poetry was featured in my most recent stage play titled, When "WE" Cry.
What inspired you to write the book?: As I thought of this question, I believe my inspiration comes from my desire to tell stories; but not just any story, but "OUR" stories...as women. I am in no way desiring to be a spokes person for other women, but rather a vehicle for connection among women. I long to express my voice, through my plays and my writings. I believe that as women in particular, when we relate and connect to the stories of other women, whether through trauma, child birth, relationships or plain love and happiness, we can realize our greater cohesiveness. By doing so, we will discover our own inner strengths and ultimately, how we are similar more than we are different.
Tell us more about your new book: 1. My recent stage production titled: When “WE” Cry, takes a look into the pain of a Black Woman; and the perils that exist when truths of pain remain silent. For generations, the black family has struggled to survive, as we continue the fight to rise above racial boundaries. When others can see themselves through our lens, we ALL can see the strengths that exist among us; creating an enlightened sense of courage to pursue collective unity among women--regardless to color, culture or gender differences. When “WE” Cry seeks to bring about awareness, of the effects in our lives, when we as women, choose to ignore our struggles; as we often times rationalize and cover up our shame. When we become embarrassed, we keep “quiet” and cope… When “WE” Cry seeks to open those painful doors to a fresh freedom in knowing that our “silence will not protect us" (Audre Lorde). The significance of this production, is that I included much of my recent collection of Poetry, into the characters within my play. I have brought to life, the characters in my book, when you see them played out on the stage.
2. My book is a collection of poetry and prose that chronicles the realities and disparities of divorce, relationships and mental illness, within communities of color. Each poem and story, are complete in itself; collectively they create a tapestry as intricate, as defined and as colorful as the people they represent. To the many generations of kinfolk unable to identify or acknowledge the mental illnesses faced and were therefore unable to cope and even to each and every one of us who are now struggling, fighting to find our voice; to all the little ones who were unable to rise, to speak and did not have a voice; and to those whose sounds became "inaudible voices" . . . including some of my own . . . I dedicate my words.
Where do you go to get into writing mode?: Often times, I like driving to the beach and sitting on a balcony with the cool wind blowing while looking out at the ocean. The peace and serene feeling is what helps me to relax and free my mind and eyes from distracting forces. I have found that, by doing this, my work usually (not always) results in a better quality project.
Who needs to read this book?: Everyone seeking to understand themselves either as a woman, or in connection to your relationships with women.
Who inspires you?: I am inspired by people that live in their truths of reality--whatever that may be. Its not up to me to decide what those truths are, or even for me to agree with those truths. But when the realness and sincerity of a person is so strong that their passions in telling their own stories show through, this is a trait that is valuable to me and says, I am who I am, and you will either love me...or you wont. Plain and simple.
How important is reading and literacy for youth in this world?: Reading and literacy is incredibly important. It doesn't always matter what you read, just read and continue to educate yourself. Always study to show yourself approved- Which means, study and read so that you will have knowledge. This way, you can effectively debate an issue if needed without a constant need for clarity. Don't always put your trust in the knowledge of someone else. Get it for yourself.
What is some advice you would give to someone with a dream to create something they dream of?: My advice is to KEEP WRITING-- DON'T STOP
Write for yourself; tell the stories that are meaningful to you; not for the trends, for trends change. Yes, numbers are important, but so is your value and integrity in telling your stories. So, don't worry about numbers or placement on the charts.....
When you WRITE for yourself, the RIGHT people will follow your work. (VYP)
Make sure to follow her catch her performance scheduled for an annual Theater Festival here in Portland, Oregon. Links below.
Where can people find your new book?: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/fruits-of-our-labor-my-words-my-harvest-vy-peterson/1114965998?ean=9781481733588
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vy_peterson/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/vypeterson
Facebook.com: https://www.facebook.com/val.peterson.7
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