Throughout tough times, it is often the sense of caring for another that helps keep us going. Pam R. Johnson Davis's poem, "5 a.m. Conversations With a Friend," explores this poignant moment of simple interaction, and will be available to read January 2021 in the print collective! Until then, I'm excited to chat about Pam’s pages penned in pandemic.
What does the pandemic currently look like in your city?
Many things in Chicago are shutting back down. Mayor Lightfoot recently just ordered that all indoor dining and bars close. It has been hard on our restaurant families as the weather gets colder.
What are some favorite books you've read during quarantine?
I have been binge-reading contemporary Black romance novels. Any work by Christina C. Jones is my absolute favorite. I also re-read a few classics, including most recently The Rime of the Ancient Mariner.
Have there been any movies, tv shows, podcasts, etc. that have helped keep you at ease the past few months?
I'm not a big podcast person, but I recently started listening to “The Happiness Lab” while I go for walks and it has been such a wonderful addition to my daily routine.
How has the pandemic affected your writing?
The pandemic has impacted my writing in a positive way. I write more now. My poems vary in topic because I have time to think, to try prompts, to do a few virtual open mics. It truly has been a gift in that way.
Are there any projects you are excited to keep working on? If so, can you give us any details (no spoilers please!) about your project?
Yes! I'm excited to be working on my next book—a chapbook! It has been fun editing, cutting, re-adding, and re-adjusting to fit a smaller format.
If asked ten years from now what the past few months have taught you about being a writer, what would come to mind?
I would tell whoever asked that I learned that your best work is still yet to come ♥
Have there been any fellow writers or people in your life who have helped you stay connected during the pandemic?
YES! My BFF L'Oreal Thompson Payton (@LTintheCity)
Is there anything that excites you about the changes being incited in the publishing world in light of recent events?
I love that there is a more inclusive focus, especially for Black writers. My writing often reflects my lived experience—in Blackness, womanhood, grieving, healing, and hope. I employ accessible language and often dabble in AAVE in my writing. That hasn't always been accepted in publications, but I'm seeing that change more and more and I love it.
Where is your favorite place to write? Has this changed during the pandemic?
My favorite place to write is in my bed. I often have things come to me in dreams or while streaming a show. With the pandemic, I get to be home and in bed more, so it has truly been a delight to write.
Without too many spoilers, what is your favorite poem you've written since the pandemic began?
This morning I wrote a poem about trying a writing prompt and failing. That was super fun!
While the future is just as unknowable as ever, what is something you are most looking forward to this year?
Being home with my partner for the holidays. No pressure from family to visit, so we get complete peace at home.
Is there any advice you would give to young writers during this time?
Write when it's hard. Write when it's light. Write when you feel joy. Write when you feel pain. No one can take your pen. Your thoughts and ideas are yours. So, don't stop writing.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
This was such a fun interview! Thank you so much for making space for this, it truly is a highlight in my evening.
ABOUT pam r. johnson davis
Pam R. Johnson Davis is a writer, poet, singer, and educator residing in Chicago, IL. She loves writing poetry, especially as she navigates life, loss, and love. Her first book, Seasons (I'll Be Seeing You): A collection of poems about heartbreak, healing, and redemption debuted at the #1 spot for New Releases in African-American Poetry and Women's Poetry on Amazon and won the "Best Urban Poetry" Book Award at American Book Fest in August 2020.
To learn more, follow Pam and her writing journey at her website and on Twitter and Instagram.
Thanks for chatting, Pam!
