::::: about the author: Joanna Ring :::::
Joanna Ring’s poem, “Observations on an Ordinary Evening” was selected as one of our three poetry winners this year. She has provided the following self-description:
“I was home-schooled from kindergarten through senior high by my mother. I know my love of writing started at a very early age. She used to give assignments where she would pick a photograph from the Encyclopedia, and I would have to write something creative based on it. As a family, we would produce yearly newsletters to send to friends and family, and my mother would let me and my brothers write our own articles. I believe I began writing my own work at the age of five (at least, I was dictating). And throughout my adolescence I kept journals of thoughts and poems; I probably have about a dozen that are full from age ten until now (twenty).
I mainly write poetry and some short stories. I love many varieties of art besides writing, and I suppose they all intertwine. I love creating; therefore I write, draw, paint, and photograph.
Besides writing in my early years, I also took several classes at FCCJ such as: English I and II with Dr. Fred Reynolds (one of my favourite professors) who taught me the basics of writing and that it’s okay to write what you want to write about. He was probably a big influence in my decision to pursue writing. I also took Intro to Lit and Great Ideas in World Literature. I really enjoyed taking Creative Writing with Professor Lany. It was during his class that I rewrote this poem. It was originally written in my bedroom, on an otherwise mundane evening. I’ve had this same piece accepted to The Experience, although that was the un-revised version. And another poem I wrote entitled “Peaceful Dreamworld” was accepted to The Experience this year.
My plans are to attend UNF and pursue a degree involving writing and perhaps art as well.
Of course, I intend to continue writing throughout my life. I’ve got some plans for a novel that is based on a real life relationship, to complete my unfinished short stories, keep up the poems, and to improve my skills in general.
I would advise fellow writers to keep it up. Stay true, as they say. And don’t get discouraged by what other people might say because in the end, writing should be who you are.”
"about the author" content provided by Joanna Ring