Maria James-Thiaw's Biography
Member Info
Camp Hill, PA
Nov 2008
Maria James-Thiaw is the author of Talking "White", the latest release from postDada Press. This talented singer, actress and writer has been performing her poetry since the mid 1990's & has 'blessed the mic' at venues from the U.S. to France.
Her poetic honors include winning three poetry slams in Harrisburg, PA & publication in several journals including Black Magnolias Literary Journal, Love Your Rebellion, Magaera, The Harrisburg Review, Poetry Ink, The Pitkin Review and others.
Maria is the author of two other collections of poetry published by Shippensburg University Press: Windows to the Soul (1999) and Rising Waters (2003). In 2006 she released her first spoken word CD, FREEverse.
She is a 1996 and 2003 graduate of Shippensburg University and in 2009, she earned her MFA in Creative Writing from Goddard College. Maria James-Thiaw is a wife and mom and a full professor at a small private college in Central PA.
Influences
My latest book was inspired by Toure's book, Who's Afraid of Post Blackness, and Ytasha Womack's Post-Black. Finally, someone was talking about these 'culture police' who think they have the cornerstone on blackness. In addition, some phenomenal poets have influenced my writing. Books are our teachers and I have been experimenting with different forms learned from Harryette Mullen, Patricia Smith, Natasha Tretheway and others. I am also very inspired by the Harlem Renaissance, which is reflected in my work as well.
Upcoming Works
Talking "White" is the latest release from postDada Media. It will be available April 2013. This collection of poetry takes a hard look at the taboo subject of intra-cultural bullying that takes place within the black community. Whether it's crabs in a basket syndrome, paper bag tests or colorism in all its forms, Talking "White" explores the question - who is black enough?
Recommended Links
Publishers
postDada Press
Shippensburg University Press
Interests & Hobbies
Poetry readings, art galleries, coffee houses
Maria James-Thiaw is the beauty and passion of the African Diaspora Writer. She is a storyteller surrounded by a universe of hungry starving listeners, trying to devour her word by word. She is more than you see and all that she can imagine. Maria dares to write poetic stories that most dare not think aloud, because they are not sure how to say it. I love the voice of this poetic writer. I know you will too! ”
—Nathaniel Gadsden, founder, Nathaniel Gadsden’s Writers Wordshop
About Maria
Maria James-Thiaw is the author of Talking "White", the latest release from postDada Press. This talented singer, actress and writer has been performing her poetry since the mid 1990's & has 'blessed the mic' at venues from the U.S. to France.
Her...
Connections
Causes Maria James-Thiaw Supports
Maria’s Favorite Books
Cane, by Jean Toomer
Sleeping With the Dictionary, by Harryette Mullen
The Gospel of Barbeque by Honoree Fannone Jeffers
Teahouse of the Almighty by Patricia...