What inspires you to write poetry?

I write poetry to knit together broad situations around me and funnel them for mental digestion and analysis, provoking myself and readers to think about those issues. Poetry is like headlines to a story. You have to dress the poem in your mind with the clothes of your choosing to have the full story.

How does it make you feel to be part of a published anthology?

I am humbled and truly honoured to be part of this anthology. I am looking forward to reading and feasting on the contributions from the other poets.

Do you face any challenges as a Zimbabwean woman poet?

Not overtly. Being in a patriarchal society, I feel there is a systemic view that does not take women seriously especially in areas that man have had dominance previously. That, however, has not dampened my passion.

Briefly describe your writing journey, from how you started to where you are today.

At school I really enjoyed writing compositions and my high school English teacher was a big encourager. I was a storyteller before I became a writer. As development practitioner and one whose work was published much later in life, I love telling stories that teach and influence… for the good of those around me and communities at large.

How do you want your work to be remembered?

That I laid it bare and talked about raw truthful issues that we avoid discussing, yet society (the vulnerable and disadvantaged) is reeling and begging for answers. I wish to instigate discussion that will inform and change narratives and perspectives. 

Would you like to share anything about yourself to help your readers connect with you? 

I am pro-family especially from the role women play in the household. I’m against the misuse and abuse they face despite their universal role of being initial custodians of future generations. 

Who is your favourite poet and why?

Freedom Nyamubaya is in a class of her own in terms of background. Her poetry was ahead of her time as she spoke on behalf of many who shared similar experiences with her. Her sarcasm and satire does not camouflage her noble values and goals as she telescopes into the future of the country she so loved.

What are your future writing aspirations?

I would like to continue writing in Shona. I am persuaded that we have to do more for our local languages and give them the importance and prominence that the mother tongue deserves. Nothing can beat “Amaiwee zvangu!”

What is your biggest dream? 

Being a Shona writer, it would be sweet dreams for me to walk into any nursery school and not hear a single word of English. Not hear any ‘Baa baa black sheep’ or ‘Jack and Jill’ but ‘kachembere kegudo ‘. Concerted focus on the local languages until year 3 of junior school and then thereafter introduce other languages. Kill the barrier and unhealthy association of intelligence with the ability to speak English.