Today we’d like to introduce you to Marie Williams.
Hi Marie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’m a writer and performing artist originally from NYC. I’ve been a writer since my adolescent years and was introduced to the art of performing spoken word poetry during my college years at Florida A & M University. After a 17 year hiatus, I returned to performing spoken word poetry in 2019. It was during this time that I decided I wanted to pursue a career in performing arts and public speaking. I searched the city for open mics, poetry events, plays, musicals, and anything else performance related. I practiced on those stages- focused on building up my confidence and stage presence. I’m still practicing!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road to mastering your craft is never smooth. I’ve been so nervous at times that I would forget my poem, or parts of my speech. There were times that I didn’t feel I was good enough to share the stage with more popular, seasoned performers. Sometimes the anxiety would couple with Imposter Syndrome and I’d have to breathe my way through a panic attack. Although many of those insecurities have subsided, I still get nervous before a performance.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’ve been called the “Mama Poet.” There is a special place in my heart for mothers and I take pride in my ability to speak our truths. I’ve been known to lend a voice to women that have lived through disappointments and tragedies and felt unheard. There are always mothers, sisters, best friends, and aunties that encourage me to keep speaking up for those women that may feel voiceless at times. I’ve had to live the experience in order to convey what so many women have lived through. I am honored to be blessed with the gift of writing and storytelling. I write for the women and mothers that feel silenced.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
I define success as the euphoric feeling of moving toward your purpose. We are constantly evolving and improving and as long as I am moving in my purpose then I am successful.
Contact Info:
- Website: shesocoldpoetry.com
- Instagram: @she_so_cold
- Facebook: @she_so_cold
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXsUF7V3yUeCkTVxDcAQ_PA
