Jukebox California recently got a chance to interview Jamillah Thomas about her book “Hearts Imperfections: Sonnets of the Soul.” We gained insights into her poems, her source of inspiration and much more!
Q. Welcome! Can you share a bit about your journey into poetry? What drew you to this form of expression, and how has it shaped your personal and professional life?
Absolutely, I’d love to share my journey into poetry with you. My venture into the world of poetry began in my early teens, during a time when I was grappling with the complexities of adolescence. I found solace in words and their ability to capture the nuances of emotion that I struggled to articulate otherwise. Poetry, with its rhythm and depth, became my sanctuary—a place where I could explore and express the intricate layers of my thoughts and feelings.
The inspiration for my book, “Hearts Imperfections: Sonnets of the Soul,”stems from a profound fascination with the human condition. I was drawn to sonnets because of their structured yet flexible form, which mirrors the delicate balance between chaos and order in our lives. Each sonnet in the collection is a reflection of a moment, a feeling, or a fragment of my soul, carefully crafted to resonate with the universal experiences of love, loss, joy, and sorrow.
Writing poetry has profoundly shaped both my personal and professional life. On a personal level, it has been a therapeutic process, allowing me to process my emotions and experiences in a healthy, creative way. It has taught me to observe the world more keenly, to find beauty in the mundane, and to appreciate the power of language.
Professionally, poetry has opened doors to a vibrant community of like-minded individuals. It has led to opportunities for public readings, collaborations with other artists, and connections with readers who find solace and inspiration in my work. The journey of publishing “Hearts Imperfections” has also taught me the intricacies of the literary world, from the challenges of self-publishing to the joy of holding my book for the first time.
In essence, poetry has been both a mirror and a window—a reflection of my inner world and a lens through which I view the outer one. It has been a journey of self-discovery and expression, one that I am deeply grateful for. I hope that through my sonnets, readers can find a piece of their own soul reflected in the verses and feel a little less alone in their own journey.
Q: Your collection “Hearts Imperfections” is deeply introspective. Could you describe a pivotal moment in your life that inspired a particular poem in this collection? How did this moment influence your writing style and themes?
Yes, “Hearts Imperfections: Sonnets of the Soul” is a deeply introspective work, and many of the poems within it are born from personal experiences. One particularly pivotal moment that inspired the poem “Balancing Act” was a time in my life when I was struggling to reconcile the demands of my personal aspirations with the responsibilities I had towards my loved ones. This moment came during a period of intense professional and personal upheaval. I was trying to establish myself as a writer while managing a day job and navigating the complexities of family life. The constant tug-of-war between my creative ambitions and my obligations often left me feeling fragmented and exhausted. It was during one particularly overwhelming evening that I sat down and wrote “Balancing Act.”
In this poem, I explored the theme of equilibrium—how we teeter on the tightrope of our own expectations and external pressures, striving to maintain a semblance of balance. The imagery of a tightrope walker came naturally, symbolizing the delicate dance we perform daily to keep our dreams and duties in harmony. This moment influenced my writing style by deepening my focus on vivid, relatable imagery and honest introspection. It reinforced the importance of vulnerability in my work, allowing me to connect more authentically with my readers. Themes of balance, struggle, and the pursuit of inner peace became central to my poetry, reflecting the universal human experience of seeking harmony in a chaotic world. “Balancing Act” and other poems in the collection are testaments to the resilience of the human spirit. They capture moments of doubt and determination, reflecting a journey that many can relate to. Writing about this pivotal moment helped me process my own experiences and, I hope, offers a sense of solidarity and understanding to others navigating their own balancing acts.
Q: What is your writing process like? Any ritual or daily mantra that you follow in order to write?
As an indie author, my approach to writing “Hearts Imperfections: Sonnets of the Soul” is quite unique and deeply personal. I find that my most inspired moments often come during the stillness of the night. There’s something profoundly peaceful and introspective about those late hours that allows my thoughts to flow freely and my creativity to flourish.
I let my mind wander and allow ideas to surface naturally. I don’t force the words; instead, I listen to the whispers of inspiration that come with the night. Sometimes, I’ll start with a single line or image that has been lingering in my mind. Other times, I’ll revisit notes and fragments I’ve jotted down during the day.
Q: How do you hope your readers will be affected by your work?
I hope that “Hearts Imperfections: Sonnets of the Soul” will touch my readers on a deeply personal level. Poetry has a unique ability to resonate with the innermost parts of our being, and my aspiration is that my words will evoke a sense of connection and understanding. Each sonnet in the collection is a reflection of my own experiences and emotions, but they are crafted to mirror the universal themes of love, loss, hope, and the intricate beauty of imperfection.
I hope my readers find solace and comfort in my poems, realizing that they are not alone in their struggles and joys. Life’s imperfections are what make us human, and by embracing them, we can find strength and resilience. I want my readers to see themselves in the verses, to feel understood and validated in their own journeys. Moreover, I hope my poetry encourages introspection and self-discovery. I want readers to take a moment to pause and reflect on their own lives, to explore the depths of their emotions and thoughts. If a single poem can inspire someone to look within and find a new perspective or a sense of peace, then I feel I have accomplished something truly meaningful. Ultimately, I hope “Hearts Imperfections” serves as a reminder of the beauty in vulnerability and the power of the human spirit. We all have stories to tell and wounds to heal, and through poetry, we can find a shared language that unites us in our imperfections. My deepest wish is that my readers leave with a sense of hope and a renewed appreciation for the profound beauty found within their own souls.
Q: Any tips or advice for aspiring poets and writers?
- Write from the Heart: Authenticity is key.
- Read Widely and Deeply: To grow as a writer, immerse yourself in the world of literature.
- Embrace the Process: Writing is a journey, not a destination.
- Establish a Routine: Find a time and place that works best for you and make writing a regular part of your day.
- Connect with a Community: Join writing groups, attend poetry readings, and connect with other writers.
- Be Open to Critique: Constructive criticism is a powerful tool for growth.
- Believe in Your Voice: Every writer has moments of doubt.
- Persevere: The path of writing and publishing can be challenging, especially as an indie author.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem.
- Remember Why You Write: Always keep in mind what drew you to writing in the first place.
Q: Lastly, as we ask all our guests on our platform, do you have any closing thoughts that you would like to share with the world and our readers?
Absolutely, and thank you for giving me the opportunity to share my thoughts. Firstly, I want to express my deep gratitude to everyone who has read and supported “Hearts Imperfections: Sonnets of the Soul.” Writing this book was a labor of love, and knowing that it has touched others is incredibly fulfilling.
To the readers and aspiring writers out there, I’d like to leave you with this: Embrace your imperfections. In a world that often celebrates perfection and uniformity, it’s our flaws and unique experiences that truly define us and give depth to our stories. The beauty of poetry, and indeed all forms of art, lies in its ability to capture the essence of our humanity—raw, unfiltered, and real.
Remember, every emotion you feel, every experience you endure, and every thought that crosses your mind has value. Use these as your wellspring of inspiration. Whether you are a writer, an artist, or simply someone trying to navigate life’s complexities, let your imperfections guide you to a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you.
Never be afraid to share your voice. Your perspective is unique and needed. There is someone out there who will find solace, inspiration, or a sense of connection in your words. The act of sharing your story, your truth, can be a beacon of light for others.
Lastly, keep believing in the power of creativity. In times of joy and sorrow, creation can be a powerful outlet and a source of healing. Whether you write, paint, sing, or dance, let your creativity flow freely and without judgment. It is through these expressions that we often find our true selves and connect with the deeper currents of life.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. I hope “Hearts Imperfections: Sonnets of the Soul” has brought you moments of reflection, comfort, and joy. Keep reading, keep creating, and most importantly, keep embracing the beautiful imperfections that make you who you are.
About the author: Jamillah Thomas, an Indie Author, weaves words like an artist painting a masterpiece. With a background in Computer Science and Programming, coupled with her roles as a Notary Public and Marriage Officiant, Thomas brings a unique perspective to her poetry. Her poems reflect a precision and attention to detail that stem from her analytical mind, while also carrying an emotional depth that speaks to her role in uniting hearts and minds through marriage. Beyond her educational qualifications and professional roles, Thomas is a true Renaissance woman. An avid art lover, she immerses herself in the world of poetry, drawing inspiration from the works of others while carving out her distinct voice. Her passion for nail art and love for music, TV, and movies infuse her writing with a vibrant energy that captivates her readers.
About Hearts Imperfections: This collection is born from author’s own introspection, woven together with the threads of human experience. It’s a mirror reflecting life’s complexities—its joys, its loves, its struggles. In each poem, she celebrates imperfections, finding beauty in the flaws that shape us. Inspired by life’s ups and downs, these sonnets journey through landscapes of joy, sorrow, passion, and pain. They’re a tapestry of emotions, touching the soul of anyone who reads them. Through rhythm and rhyme, she aims to capture what it truly means to be human—fragile yet resilient, flawed yet extraordinary.
“Hearts Imperfections” isn’t just a book of poetry; it’s a voyage of self-discovery.
The book is now available on Kobo: Heart’s Imperfections
