1. What led you to first start writing poetry?
It's funny. I think I've been writing poetry since I learned about it in third grade; however, I never dreamed of sharing what had written until I learned there was a beautiful community of poets on Instagram who supported and encourage each other. One day I just decided to go for it, so I created an account, and the words started flowing.
2. Who is your inspiration for writing poetry?
I love anything by Shakespeare, Shelley, Keats, Cummings, Angelou, Emily Dickinson, and recently, Sandra Cisneros, and Ann Voskamp. I was an English major in college, so I am a nerd for the classics. My favorite work of literature is Hamlet. 3. What is your biggest tip to beginning poetry writers? Don't let fear hold you back. Just start, and you'll grow. Also, don't feel like you have to sound a certain way to grow popularity or an audience. Stay true to your own voice and what you have to say. Your voice is valuable and needed! 4. How long have you been working on your book? Did you ever feel discouraged? I started writing my poetrybook in November 2017, but there are several pieces in there I had actually written years ago (I never dreamed they would find a home in poetry book). I've felt a lot of discouragement about writing over the years, and much of that stemmed from comparing myself to others. A quote that has helped me with that is "Never compare your beginning to someone else's middle." I am learning to just keep working & writing, and to let God direct my steps. 5. Do you have a favorite poem you've ever written? If so, what is it? I really like a piece called "Come In." It is about a tangle of stray creatures who find themselves at home at my door, it is actually based on a true story. We have had tangle of creatures at our little house! My husband and I are passionate about animal rescue, but the poem has larger implications than that wanted to spread message about love, acceptance, inclusion, and hospitality. 6. Where can readers buy Songs of Peace? It is available in my shop, www.annesparrow.com, in Amazon and at www.barnesandnoble.com