Yewande Akinse
What made you decide to become a writer?
Deciding to become a writer was a gradual journey for me, rather than a single moment of revelation. Growing up, I was always drawn to stories—whether they were in books, songs, or the rich oral traditions of my culture. There was something magical about how words could evoke emotions, paint vivid images, and connect people across different experiences.
As I started writing in my teenage years, I found it to be a powerful outlet for self-expression. It allowed me to explore my thoughts and feelings in a way that felt both freeing and fulfilling. I realized that writing was not just a hobby; it was a way for me to make sense of the world around me and share my perspective with others.
Over time, I became more serious about my craft, honing my skills and discovering my voice. The desire to connect with readers and inspire them through my words became a driving force. Ultimately, it was the combination of passion, personal experiences, and the belief in the power of storytelling that led me to embrace my identity as a writer. It’s been a rewarding journey, and I’m excited to see where it takes me next!
How many books have you written and/or published and which is your favourite? Why?
I have written and published three books, each holding a special place in my heart. “The rise and fall of rhymes and rhythms” (2025), “A tale of being, of green and of ing” (2019), and Voices: A collection of poems that tell stories (2016). However, my favorite is my most recent collection of poems for children, “The Rise and Fall of Rhymes and Rhythms”. This collection is particularly meaningful to me because it was crafted with the intention of imparting valuable life lessons to young readers, including my daughter.
What makes this collection my favorite is the joy and hope it embodies. Each poem is designed to engage children’s imaginations while teaching them about kindness, resilience, and self-discovery. Writing this book allowed me to reflect on my own experiences and the lessons I wish to share with the next generation. It feels like a heartfelt gift, a way to nurture curiosity and empathy in young minds. Ultimately, this collection represents not just my growth as a poet, but also my love for storytelling and the impact I hope to have on young readers.
Tell me more about your favourite book
My favorite book, “The Rise and Fall of Rhymes and Rhythms”, is a collection that beautifully blurs the lines between poetry and music. Written in the structured form of a dizain, each poem consists of 10 lines with 10 syllables per line, following a specific rhyme scheme of ABABBCCDCD. This meticulous structure not only lends a rhythmic quality to the verses but also enhances the musicality of the language, making it engaging for young readers.
The collection features 100 poems, each crafted to convey valuable life lessons in a way that is both accessible and enjoyable. The fluidity of the writing allows the poems to flow seamlessly, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the lyrical journey. Themes of kindness, resilience, curiosity, and self-discovery are woven throughout, encouraging children to reflect on their own experiences and emotions.
What I love most about this book is its ability to resonate with children while also appealing to adults. The rhythmic patterns and playful language create a sense of joy and wonder, making it a delightful read-aloud experience. I aimed to create a space where children can explore important values while enjoying the beauty of language, and I believe this collection achieves that goal. Ultimately, “The Rise and Fall of Rhymes and Rhythms” is not just a book of poems; it is a celebration of the power of words to inspire, educate, and connect across generations.
What is your favourite genre to write in? Tell me why
My favorite genre to write in is poetry. Poetry offers a unique canvas where I can play with language, bending and shaping it to convey emotions, ideas, and experiences in ways that often transcend conventional expression. It allows me to explore the nuances of meaning, rhythm, and sound, creating a musicality that resonates deeply with both the writer and the reader.
What I find particularly exhilarating about poetry is the freedom it provides to express myself with words that do not yet exist or to reimagine familiar language in innovative ways. This genre encourages experimentation, inviting me to delve into metaphor, imagery, and symbolism, crafting verses that evoke emotion and provoke thought.
Through poetry, I can distill complex feelings into concise forms, capturing the essence of a moment or a thought in a way that feels both intimate and universal. It is this ability to connect with others through the art of language that makes poetry my preferred genre, allowing me to share my voice and invite readers into the depths of my imagination.
Do you write under a pseudonym or your own name?
I write under my own name, embracing the authenticity that comes with it. Each poem reflects my personal journey, and using my true identity fosters a deeper connection with readers. My name is a testament to my heritage and experiences, inviting others to engage with my work on a profound level.
How many hours a day or week would you say you spend writing? Is it a potential career for you, is it something you do outside your day job?
I dedicate about 10 to 15 hours a week to writing, weaving words into the fabric of my days. It’s a dance between my day job and my passion, where poetry becomes my refuge and my muse. While I navigate the demands of life, I carve out sacred moments to create, dreaming of a future where writing flourishes as my primary career, a world where my verses resonate and inspire, transforming fleeting thoughts into lasting connections.
Is writing therapeutic for you, or does it cause you to stress out?
Writing is often therapeutic for me, serving as a refuge where I can explore my thoughts and emotions freely. However, I’ve learned to approach it in smaller doses lately. There was a time when I wrote while stressed, and the experience became truly overwhelming.
Now, I prioritize balance, allowing myself to write when I feel inspired and at peace, rather than forcing the process during turbulent times. This mindful approach helps me maintain the joy and healing that writing brings, ensuring that it remains a source of solace rather than stress.
How do you market your books?
I primarily market my books through word of mouth and social media, leveraging the power of personal connections and online platforms to reach a wider audience. Word of mouth is invaluable; I encourage friends, family, and fellow writers to share their thoughts about my work, creating organic buzz within their networks.
On social media, I actively engage with readers and fellow poets, sharing insights into my writing process, snippets from my books, and updates on events or readings. Platforms like Instagram and Twitter allow me to connect with a diverse audience, fostering a community around my work. I also participate in virtual readings, workshops, and literary discussions, which not only promote my books but also create meaningful interactions with readers.
By combining these approaches, I aim to build a supportive network that amplifies my voice and invites others to explore the themes and stories within my poetry.
