GS&NS: Your poem, “Forests”, utilizes a lot of strong natural imagery. What does that contribute to the poem’s overall meaning?
Monique: I feel most alive in nature, I also feel most alive in love. I paired the two together, I believe they compliment each other in a relatable way, with still leaving some room for the reader's imagination to play a part in the interpretation.
GS&NS: Discuss the impact of the final lines of “Forests”, which seems to contemplate the idea of permanence in a relationship. What were your intentions with those final lines?
“Let's make love like a forest;
'Cause a forest still stands
even after the dark.”
Monique: I want a love that makes it mark. That has deep roots, not shallow ones. One that's strong and can withstand a million storms like a mighty tree could. I love that the beauty of a forest, doesn't change when the sun goes down. The trees still stand grand in their stature, constantly, just like I hope my love does.
GS&NS: What advice would you give to emerging writers?
Monique: My advice is don't critique yourself too much. Let your soul speak through whatever tool moves you. Don't dissect art that you create from the heart, you will always find some flaw when looking too close. Take a day or two to move away from a piece of writing if you not liking the direction it's going in. I bet you, in a different state of mind somehow you will see the beauty in every word you compose. Just let it flow!
Connect with Monique:
Www.xmarkedheart.wordpress.com
Www.instagram.com/xmarkedheart
Evolution: An Anthology