Phyllis Jackson is a graduate of Savannah State University (Savannah, GA) with a BBA in Marketing and a MBA in Public Administration. Phyllis, also known as “The Elitess,” has had a passion for word imagery since 1994. It was that same year in which she wrote her first, award winning poem. Since then, Phyllis has been writing poetry that mainly focuses on the intimacy of the heart, mind, body and spirit.
How long have you been writing? I have been writing since 1994. My introduction to the artistry of poetry was given at the age of 10.
What prompted you to write Reflections of A Journey? I felt compelled to share my life’s story with others. I believe that other people are going through the same things & should know that they are not alone. I, also, needed to display my roots & growth process in my writing, after publishing my debut book “Soul Searching Confessions”.
Your alias is “The Elitess” , why was this name chosen to exemplify who you are as a writer ? Well, people often confuse my name “Elitess” with the term ‘ Elitist”. My name simply means, above average. I do not see myself as being better than anyone, but I do believe that I set myself to a higher standard of life. I make it my business to live, exemplify & deliver greatness in everything that I do. For these reasons, I have been christened as “The Elitess”, but maintain a great deal of humility towards my people.
What are some of your other projects? I have had the opportunity to be featured as an Ultra Model Role Model, which has allowed me to reach out to a new market within communities around the world. I am, also, writing monthly poems for One Entertainment Magazine. While embracing all of these great opportunities, I am working to complete my Master’s degree program & working on my third book. “As I Am: Poetic Memoires of the Soul” should be complete by the spring of 2011.
What are some of the experiences you have gone through as a young black writer? As a young African American Writer, I have experienced the challenges of self publishing ( self, promotion,editing,managing,etc) I have ,also, experienced the reluctance of acceptance by people who have not initially open to change.
What words or suggestions would you provide to inspiring writers? I would suggest that inspiring writers learn the business behind publishing, management, etc. I would also suggest that people should go for what they desire & hope for. Never let anyone stunt your growth or kill your dreams. Only you have the power to stop your progress.
What are your literary endeavors? As an author, it is my goal to become a household name. I want to share my experiences & allow them to serve as inspiration to those who are going through similar situations.
Reflections of A Journey Synopsis:
Reflections of a Journey is a compilation of poems that exhibit the trail of experiences of the Elitess, and many others. The poems in this book display the confusion, inquiries, frustrations & fantasies that evolved many of us into the women & men we are today. Reflections of a journey encompasses over 30 pieces that will take its readers on the journey of The Elitess’ life, as serve as encouragement for others to look at the things ,in their lives, that molded them.
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To learn more about the author, visit: http://ArtsofElitess.com