SM: Can you tell us about yourself?
AC: I’m from sunny South Florida; Hollywood to be exact. It's south of Ft. Lauderdale and North Miami and I’m part of a big family, being one of seven siblings and 5th in line near the middle. I’m often the conflict resolution counselor for my siblings. My father carried a very calming demeanor so I guess it’s a gene he passed on to me.
SM: What are your influences?
AC: There are many: Maya Angelou, Robert Frost, Langston Hughes, J. Ivy, E.E Cummings and many more. I identify with these powerful artists, and many others, who can use rhyme and free verse to paint such vivid pictures that speak volumes. I began writing when I was in middle school; I was 13. My English teacher, Ms. Coley, read some of my work I had completed for one of her assignments and she was astonished by what I wrote. So much so, she actually wanted to keep my work. After that I begin to lock myself in my room and write. I’ve never known a more rewarding and liberating experience since I began writing all those years ago.
SM: What drives you to write in written or spoken word?
AC: It honestly comes with the moment. Many times I write about some of my feelings or encounters that I’ve had or someone near me has experienced. Spoken word is usually tied to a very fresh, intense emotion that I depict through my words.
"Spoken word is usually tied to a very fresh, intense emotion that I depict through my words."
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