Thunderstroke: A Poetry Memoir Inspired by a True Story is a deeply moving and inspiring collection of poetry and memoir, offering readers a wellspring of meaning and reflection. How do you strike a balance between clarity and ambiguity in your poetry?
Poetry is a unique space where emotions and meaning can exist between the lines. For me, finding the balance between clarity and ambiguity comes naturally through my experience with aphasia. I aim to make my poetry accessible, allowing readers to feel the raw emotions behind my words, but I also leave room for interpretation—so that each person can find their own meaning in my experiences. Sometimes, what is left unsaid carries just as much weight as the words on the page.
What was the most challenging part of writing your poetry collection and memoir, and what was the most rewarding?
The most challenging part was finding the right words to express my emotions while navigating the effects of aphasia. Writing poetry requires precision, yet my struggle with language often made it frustrating. However, this challenge also became my greatest strength—it forced me to dig deeper, to express feelings in ways beyond just words, through rhythm, imagery, and raw emotion.
The most rewarding part was seeing how the poems came together as a reflection of my journey. It was not just about my personal healing but about creating something that could resonate with others. Knowing that my words might inspire someone going through their own struggles makes all the effort worth it.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your story?
I hope readers take away the message that even in life’s most difficult moments, there is always strength within us to keep going. Thunderstroke is not just about my journey—it’s about resilience, hope, and the power of finding meaning in adversity. I want readers to know that no matter how tough their battle is, they are not alone, and their story is still being written. There is always light beyond the storm.
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Thunderstroke: A Poetry Memoir Inspired by a True Story is a profound exploration of life’s most pivotal and transformative moments. Through poignant and evocative poetry, this book captures the raw, unfiltered experience of standing at the edge of a life-altering precipice—the moment when everything you once knew shifts irrevocably.
Written for those navigating the labyrinth of loss, grief, and profound change, Thunderstroke offers solace and guidance. It reflects on the fragile tapestry of existence, unraveling how we endure the thunderous ruptures that divide life into “before” and “after.”
This memoir is not just about survival but transformation—how we heal, rebuild, and emerge stronger in the face of overwhelming challenges. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, embracing vulnerability as a source of strength and finding hope amidst despair.
Thunderstroke is more than a collection of poetry; it is a map for navigating the uncharted waters of upheaval. It invites readers to journey through the storm and discover the quiet miracle of renewal—a reminder that while life may fracture, it also holds the power to mend.