“If you bring forth what is within you, what you bring forth will save you. If you do not bring forth what is within you, what you do not bring forth will destroy you.” —Gospel of Thomas
I launched The Book of She on January 1, 2020 because SHE was within me. Each poem with its embodiment of a new SHE character felt colorful, alive, larger than the black and white words resting on the white page. SHE wanted to break out of conventional constraints, to be seen as unique and individual, to be heard in her own voice.
One year later, multiple SHE poems have been redefined by multiple SHE voices. An idea that started in my sleep and took shape at my kitchen table has been transformed into 52 artistic explorations of women’s lives, bodies, and stories. I wrote these poems, but I didn’t fully know each of the women within until I was was formally introduced to them by 52 women, 52 Saturday mornings in a row.
Thank you to the friends who encouraged me to get going despite my fears—you offered your love and light. Thank you to all participating SHE poem interpreters—you embraced the words and gave each woman a heart and soul. Thank you to all watchers, cheerleaders, and blog readers—you have nurtured and inspired.
During a year of chaos and darkness these 52 new pieces of artwork brightened up my life. I feel like a proud mom. Look! I say to anyone with an ear.
Look how SHE has grown.
To view all 52 of The Book of She poems and their magical interpretations please visit @bookofshepoems on Instagram.
XO, Michelle