When I first started to write poetry, there was nothing short about any of my pieces, my work tended to be very long, imaginative, and drawn out riddled with infinite detail. In fact, my first collection of Micro Poetry entitled Cockroach Blueprint taught me that I really can say what I want to, without being fantastical or flowery. It was fun to say, what I wanted to, in a quipped powerful fashion. That’s how I feel about the work of Monice R. aka on Instagram @nakedwithahangover, she writes these short pieces that could literally cut you in the fashion of a freshly forged Katana blade. Monice certainly does not mince her words; she knows exactly what she is saying when she says it and truly embraces her sense of self. I\’ll always feel more at home writing longer pieces but, can certainly appreciate the level of patience it takes to cut certain words out, to be able to write shorter pieces and literally make the COUNT! Which Monice totally does!!!
RMMW: We all have an inner critic; how do you contend with yours?
MR: I would like to think now, I have pretty good control over my inner critic. When I was younger, I would probably say not so much to be honest because our perspectives definitely change as we grow older. I think we are all pretty much our own worst critic. But as for myself awareness is key and having been through quite some hardships growing up you can only succumb so much that when these inner voices or demons invade your headspace you can either choose to snuggle them or suffocate them. And most of time I choose the latter.
RMMW: Do you have any artist rituals before starting a new poem?
MR: I do not have any rituals. Actually, I never sit and think to myself okay I want to write today. I don’t even think that’s possible for me because I am diagnosed with ADHD and I think I’d lose my mind if I would have something set to do such as writing. Writing papers while I was, in college alone drove me nuts.
RMMW: What is your process do you go right for a pen and a piece of paper or to the computer or device?
MR: I never go for paper as my handwriting is not eligible and I truly despise my handwriting. Often, I can’t even read my own writing. I go right to my device instantly in my notes. Yes, I am that person.
RMMW: At what age did you start writing? What was the catalyst?
MR: I can’t say I’ve written before. To be honest someone told me I have a lot to say and well here I am. I mean have I’ve always loved poetry and words for as long as I can remember, yes. Even as a child. I mean I use to jot down metaphors or words that were in my head here and there, but I’ve never acknowledged it as anything or would have thought to write. I wouldn’t call myself a writer still. Just a girl with built up emotions or yours per say. Not you, but you know what I mean.
RMMW: What do you relish most about micro poetry?
MR: Good question. You know to be honest I didn’t even know what I was writing was called micro poetry until I joined Instagram and found a community of poets and came to the realization as such. Back to the question. I would say what I relish about micro poetry is how one/I can say so little, but the impact can be so deep within just a few words.
RMMW: Do you have a favourite theme or genre that you enjoy writing?
MR: I do not. I literally write about anything that comes to mind whether it’s about love, life, or intimacy. I would say maybe love. I’m a hopeless romantic. Well currently just hopeless (inserts laugh)
RMMW: Where is your favourite place to write?
MR: I don’t have a favorite place as I write whenever words just pop up random in my head. I’ll either save it or edit it later on. But I can write literally anywhere.
RMMW: I am so excited as I put a baby Yoda Funko Pop on hold. As a collector of Funko Pops which one is your favourite and why?
MR: Can I love this question anymore? Hard question but I’m going to go with Wednesday Addams as I’ve always loved her since a kid and was often called her growing up. Edgar Poe is my second favorite. I know you said one but they’re literally equal to one favorite to me!
RMMW: Do you write as a result of cathartic release?
MR: Sometimes I do. Sometimes I just write.
RMMW: How does writing make you feel?
MR: It makes me feel good. I’ve actually never thought I’d find something I enjoy. And years later here I am. I do really enjoy it and if I can make others feel through my words than I know I’m doing something right.
RMMW: If you could travel to the future, and meet future you, what advice would you give yourself with regards to writing?
MR: Keep writing and don’t give up. I’ve almost stopped a few times because I really don’t even feel like a writer. I mean I write what a few words here and there. But in reality, it’s really not the quantity of the words but the quality as with anything else. So, I guess I’d say don’t stop writing and keep being me.
RMMW: If you had a superpower what would it be?
MR: 1000 percent it would be take people’s aches away from their heart so they would never have to gulp another ounce of pain for the rest of their days. I know pain too well. And I don’t want anyone to feel such depth of aches.
CCIQ Press 