Renee J. Nowlin has had adventures all over the world, but for this poet, the most exciting and inspiring places are within her own heart. Her debut poetry collection isn't merely about the physical locations she has visited-it's about the crossroads in her life that have taught her something new and meaningful.
One such moment was in December 2015. Nowlin traveled to Barbados and returned from the idyllic island feeling newly inspired to pursue her writing. It wasn't the picturesque vistas or exotic locale that led to this creative rejuvenation-instead, it was how people opened their hearts and homes to her that fueled her muse.
Nowlin's poetry reflects the mood of the island and the optimism she brought back with her. Her poems cover a wide variety of experiences and encapsulate important truths about romance, heartbreak, community, and family. Others draw upon Nowlin's experiences as an African American woman to speak about identity and heritage. Each work shows another facet of a strong new voice in American poetry.
Nowlin stresses that this journey through her life is still unfolding and developing. While she relishes the inspiration she's already gained, she's also planning all the places she'll go next!
About the Author: Renee J. Nowlin has always had a passion for writing. Even as she found success as a radio salesperson, preschool teacher, travel agent, and banker, she continued to focus on her short stories and poetry. Nowlin has written radio commercials for small businesses, newsletters for her block club, and short stories for her friends. She loves watching people respond to her words.
Nowlin was born and raised on Chicago's South Side. She graduated from High Park Career Academy and Columbia College Chicago. She believes in striking a balance between career, family, friends, community, and religion. Oh, the Places I Have Traveled is her debut poetry collection.
