Caro Henry

Growing up in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands profoundly influenced my storytelling style by instilling a rich tapestry of cultural narratives, folklore, and oral traditions. The Caribbean's vibrant colors, sounds, and rhythms shaped my perception of storytelling as a communal experience, where every tale is a shared journey. The people's warmth and the islands' natural beauty imbue my writing with a sense of place and belonging, emphasizing the importance of community and connection.

Not any single moment or memory shaped my love for poetry and writing; instead, it blossomed through a combination of experiences. I remember listening to both of my parents as they shared stories, not just reading nursery rhymes or tales from books. The sound of their voices, rich with life and emotion, drew me in. I would watch my father write down his thoughts, the pen gliding across the paper, and then hear him read those words to my mother, seeking her thoughts and reflections. A sense of collaboration and creativity filled those moments.

Sitting on the cool veranda, I would listen to the gentle chorus of tiny frogs and gaze up at the star-filled sky, enveloped in the warmth of their storytelling. My parents and their friends would recount tales of their families, weaving together memories, laughter, and sometimes tears. In those shared stories, I found the magic of words, the power of expression, and the beauty of connecting through narrative. These experiences instilled in me a deep appreciation for storytelling that continues to inspire my writing today.

“Immigrant Dreams” was inspired by my journey and the journeys of countless others seeking a better life. I hope readers take from it a message of resilience and hope. It’s about the dreams that drive us, the sacrifices we make, and the unyielding spirit of those who dare to start anew. I want readers to reflect on their dreams and recognize the shared humanity in the immigrant experience.

Balancing the rhythms of Caribbean storytelling with my experiences in America requires a conscious blending of styles. I draw on the lyrical, musical quality of Caribbean narratives while infusing them with the diverse perspectives I've encountered in the U.S. This fusion creates a unique voice that honors my roots while embracing new influences, allowing me to explore themes of identity and belonging in a multicultural context.

Soothing jazz or reggae music accompanies my writing routine, which helps me enter a creative flow. I write in the early mornings when the world is quiet, sipping on coffee. I also keep a journal to jot down thoughts and ideas, allowing me to capture inspiration whenever it strikes. I begin writing many poems and stories by taking pen to paper, which seems to help slow my thoughts and allow me to find the words I need. Rituals like taking a moment to take deep breaths before I start writing help ground me and create a sacred space for creativity.

My personal experiences and cultural heritage are the foundation of my writing. Themes of migration, identity, and belonging often emerge, reflecting my journey as a Caribbean American. My community's struggles and triumphs inspire me to explore the complexities of culture, memory, and the search for home. My work reflects the diverse voices that shaped me, aiming to honor those stories while inviting others to share their own.

Music, particularly reggae, is a significant part of my writing process. The rhythms and melodies inspire my creativity and evoke emotions that find their way into my writing. Reggae's themes of resilience, love, and social justice resonate deeply with my work, influencing my choice of language and the emotional depth of my poetry and stories. It serves as a soundtrack to my creative journey, energizing and guiding me through the writing process.

I am drawn to deep emotions and personal growth themes because they reflect the human experience in its rawest form. Exploring the edges of our emotions—fear, love, loss—allows for profound connections with readers. These themes resonate because they reveal our vulnerabilities and the transformative power of facing our struggles. I believe that through these explorations, we can find healing and hope.

The concept of “edges” or liminal spaces relates to my life journey. I have often found myself on the brink of change—navigating cultural differences, personal challenges, and the pursuit of dreams. Each edge represents a moment of decision, growth, and transformation. Embracing these edges has taught me resilience and the importance of stepping outside my comfort zone, ultimately leading to self-discovery and empowerment.

Language plays a crucial role in storytelling, shaping the narrative and connecting with the audience. While I recognize the richness of Jamaican patois and its cultural significance, I rarely incorporate it directly into my poetry and short stories. Instead, I often capture the rhythms and nuances of patois, allowing them to influence the flow and emotion of my writing without using the language explicitly. This approach helps me convey a sense of place and identity while maintaining accessibility for a broader audience.

The most challenging part of my writing career has been navigating the publishing landscape. Finding a platform that values diverse voices and stories can be daunting. Additionally, overcoming self-doubt and the fear of vulnerability in sharing my work has been a significant hurdle. However, these challenges have ultimately fueled my writing growth, teaching me resilience and perseverance.

Navigating the transition to publishing a full-length book required a blend of patience and dedication. Initially, the poems served as a means for me to process my thoughts and emotions, allowing me to explore the intricacies of life from a deeply personal perspective. I found solace in writing, using it as a tool to make sense of moments that felt chaotic or overwhelming.

Embracing the revision process and understanding the publishing industry were essential steps. As the collections began to take shape, I became increasingly aware of the potential audience. I started envisioning readers who might resonate with the themes of resilience, hope, growth, loss, and wonder—individuals navigating life. This awareness guided me to balance personal narrative and universal experience. I wanted the poems to feel relatable, inviting readers to see themselves within the lines and reflect on their journeys.

I also sought mentorship and built a supportive network that guided me through the complexities of bringing a book to life.

My Caribbean-American identity has profoundly shaped my perspective as an author by providing a unique lens through which I view the world. It enriches my storytelling with cultural depth and diversity, allowing me to explore themes of identity, migration, and belonging. This duality enables me to bridge gaps between cultures, fostering understanding and empathy in my readers while celebrating the beauty of both worlds.

I am currently working on a collection of fantasy short stories that delve into themes of identity and personal growth, inspired by my ongoing journey as a writer. Additionally, I am exploring collaborative projects with other artists to merge literature with visual and performing arts. I hope to continue sharing stories and poetry that resonate with readers and contribute to meaningful dialogues about culture and identity.

My AllAuthor experience has been incredibly positive. It provides a platform to connect with fellow writers and readers. Highlights include engaging with a supportive community that encourages creativity and collaboration. The resources and promotional opportunities available have been invaluable in expanding my reach and sharing my work with a broader audience. Overall, it has been a fulfilling journey that has enriched my writing career.