Dear friends, I hope this finds you safe and well. I find myself longing to be out in the world. Seeing friends for brunch, flying overseas, vacationing with my love on a sandy beach. I scroll through photos, like the one above from Dingle, Ireland, to remember I have in fact been places. I am doing my part to keep my family and community safe - wearing masks, social distancing, washing my hands while reciting Lucile Clifton’s poem “won’t you celebrate with me” (see below). But I must admit – I miss being in the company of my people. Zoom is not the same. Texting is not the same. I keep singing “I can’t even lie, I’ve been lonely as fuck” from Tyler, the Creator’s song 911 / Mr. Lonely. But then I remind myself that I am still here. You are reading this, so you are too. That gives me hope. One day we will be in the same room laughing about whatever, listening to good music, sharing incredible poetry, and eating delicious food. Until then, wear a mask, social distance, wash your hands, and keep love in your heart. Warmly, Amanda |
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I'm sure you've seen the above graphic. I edited it with Lucille Clifton's poem "won't you celebrate with me." I find it more fitting than "Happy Birthday." "everyday something has tried to kill me and has failed." Wash your hands. |
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I'm still supporting the Central Texas Food Bank because people still need to eat. Give what you can. There is too much food in America for people to go hungry. Thank you for sharing. | | |
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Sitting with this quote from Kafka shared by Helga Davis... Kafka’s 109th and Final Aphorism "You do not need to leave your room. Remain sitting at your table and listen. Do not even listen. Simply wait. Be quiet, still and solitary. The world will freely offer itself to you to be unmasked. It has no choice. It will roll in ecstasy at your feet." | | |
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HAPPY BIRTHDAY, PATRICIA SMITH! I was beyond thrilled to join this iconic lineup of poets over two days to celebrate one of the greatest poets of our time, the one and only Patricia Smith. Click the link below to watch now and get some of this good literary love. | | |
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| | Get this truth in your life! The brilliant poet, essayist, artistic light that is Shayla Lawson has more than a word - a book! - here to get us all together. This is Major and ready for you. | | |
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| | Renée Watson and Ellen Hagan collaborate on this empowering literary gift to inspire readers of all ages to build, grow, and organize together. Read this with your sisterfriends. | | |
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And Now For A Public Service Announcement |
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“What is safe in this burning for survival?” Amanda Johnston turns and turns the question, a high stakes puzzle to unravel, the answers all bound up in love. Tight, spare, minimalist and brimming with mystery, these poems weigh the consequences of every gesture: the opened lock, the raised right hand, the inward reach. “You grip the wheel, knuckles frozen, and press the gas/as clouds drift in and out of your mouth.” With strong resolve, illimitable talent, and a clear reverence for the forebears these poems reach for and find, Amanda Johnston crafts a collection of beauty and daring. Her risks are honest; her voice, vital—I mean absolutely necessary. -Lyrae Van Clief-Stefanon | | |
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Want to bring Amanda to your event? Let's connect! Available for online readings, adult and youth workshops, seminars, and speaking engagements. Press Kit | | |
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Cave Canem Foundation is near and dear to my heart. As a fellow and current board member, I know firsthand how Cave Canem supports Black poets with the necessary time, space, and encouragement needed to dream, create, and grow. Thank you for your continued support for this "home for black poetry." | | |
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Get Poetry News & Updates from Amanda Johnston |
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